Forráskritikai

Forráskritikai, often translated as source criticism, is a scholarly method used to evaluate the reliability and authenticity of a source, whether it be a historical document, artifact, or any piece of information. The primary goal of forráskritikai is to determine the origin, purpose, and potential biases of the source, thereby assessing its trustworthiness for a particular use. This process typically involves examining internal and external evidence.

Internal criticism focuses on the content of the source itself. This includes analyzing the language, style, and consistency of the information presented. It also involves identifying any logical fallacies, contradictions, or unsubstantiated claims within the text. For example, a historical account might be scrutinized for anachronisms or details that seem improbable given the known context of the time.

External criticism, on the other hand, examines evidence outside the source. This involves questions of provenance, authorship, date of creation, and the material from which the source is made. For written documents, this might include comparing handwriting, paper type, and ink to known examples from a particular period or author. For artifacts, it could involve scientific analysis of materials or dating techniques.

Ultimately, forráskritikai aims to establish the credibility of a source. It is a fundamental tool in fields such as history, archaeology, literary studies, and even investigative journalism, ensuring that conclusions are based on sound and verifiable evidence rather than conjecture or misinformation.