Absolutes Quote by David Cannadine
“David Irving has consistenly applied an evidential double standard, demanding absolute documentary proof to convict the Germans (as when he sought to show that Hitler was not responsible for the Holocaust), while relying on circumstantial evidence to condemn the British (as in his account of the Allied bombing of Dresden).”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, William Shirer, 1960
He applies a stricter evidential standard to Germans than to the British, showing bias in his historical judgments.
In simple terms: He uses double standards in evidence.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge biased evidence standards.
Themes
histororiography
bias
evidence
war crimes
truth
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
analytical
controversial
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- public policy
- media criticism
- legal proceedings
Key Concepts
double standard
circumstantial evidence
documentary proof
Questions to Reflect On
- How does selective evidence affect historical truth?
- What standards should apply to all parties?
A Different Perspective
His method may overlook legitimate evidence when it conflicts with his narrative.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
