WorldJuly 14, 2026
pretense
/ˈpriːtɛns/
Definition
A false or arrogant claim that one possesses knowledge or understanding that one does not actually have.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French 'pretence,' based on the Latin 'praetensus,' meaning 'stretched forth' or 'alleged.' It entered Middle English to describe an outward show or a claim made to conceal the truth.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe the dangerous, misplaced confidence of experts who act as if they can predict complex global events. It highlights the error of believing that human intellect can fully master systems with too many variables.
When we cease to understand the world
Read the full article ↗Paul Wells