Talk:Barack Obama citizenship conspiracy theories/FAQ
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about the corresponding page Barack Obama citizenship conspiracy theories. They address concerns, questions, and misconceptions which have repeatedly arisen on the talk page. Please update this material when needed. |
- Q1: Isn't the use of the terms "conspiracy theories" and "fringe" in the article title and body a violation of Wikipedia's policy on neutrality?
- A1: No. A preponderance of reliable sources have treated and referred to the topic as a fringe conspiracy theory, rather than a legitimate controversy. The article reflects these sources as per Wikipedia's policy of verifiability. Consensus on the article title has been established through a RFC and has been repeatedly reaffirmed since.
- Q2: What about the word "false" or "falsely"? Is it appropriate for a Wikipedia article to state that claims are false?
- A2: Yes. Wikipedia policy is that fringe theories should not be given undue weight. Presenting a fringe theory as an unchallenged possibility gives undue credence to that theory. ("...we should not describe these two opposing viewpoints as being equal to each other ... for instance, forms of historical revisionism that are considered by more reliable sources to either lack evidence or actively ignore evidence.")
- Q3: Can we discuss renaming the article or removing the "fringe" or "false" labeling?
- A3: Yes. Consensus can change, so new perspective on this issue is welcome, but please do not rehash old arguments. Please review the archives to see past discussions on this topic, and keep in mind Wikipedia policies and reliable sources when you frame your discussion.
- Q4: The Certification of Live Birth isn't a Birth Certificate, is it?
- A4: Hawaii has never issued a document with the title "Birth Certificate". Instead, their certificate is titled, "Certification Of Live Birth". The law stipulates that it fulfills all of the functions for which anyone needs a birth certificate. It is therefore misleading to suggest that it is somehow not a birth certificate.