forráskritikára

Forráskritika, or source criticism, is a fundamental methodology used in various academic disciplines, most notably history, theology, and literary studies, to evaluate the reliability and authenticity of sources. Its primary goal is to determine the origin, purpose, and potential biases of a given text or artifact.

The process typically involves several stages. First, external criticism aims to establish the genuineness of the source, examining its physical characteristics, date, and authorship. This helps distinguish between original documents and later forgeries or copies. Internal criticism, on the other hand, focuses on the content of the source. It assesses the credibility of the information presented by considering the author's perspective, intended audience, and potential motivations. For instance, an author who stands to gain from a particular narrative might present a biased account.

By applying these critical methods, scholars can reconstruct past events or understand texts more accurately. Forráskritika helps to identify inconsistencies, anachronisms, and propaganda, thereby allowing for a more nuanced and evidence-based interpretation. It is an indispensable tool for historical research, ensuring that conclusions are drawn from the most reliable evidence available.