Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the controversy surrounding an exhibition of ancient Egyptian artifacts at the Shanghai Museum, sparked by a professor's claims that these artifacts may not be authentic and are part of a larger narrative questioning Western historical narratives [2][4][10]. Group 1: Exhibition and Controversy - The exhibition of ancient Egyptian artifacts is described as the largest of its kind, attracting significant attention upon its launch [2]. - Professor Huang Heqing raised doubts about the authenticity of the artifacts, particularly criticizing a pair of sandals that appeared too new to be thousands of years old [4][5]. - Huang's broader argument posits that Western civilization, including ancient Egypt, is a fabrication, asserting that only Chinese civilization is a true ancient civilization [10][11]. Group 2: Academic Response - Despite Huang's claims, no archaeologists or historians have publicly responded to him, leading to his frustration [12][14]. - Archaeologist Tang Jigen attempted to counter Huang's arguments through social media, suggesting that the academic community's silence is a deliberate choice [14][15]. - Tang emphasizes that not all Western historical artifacts are fraudulent and that restoration processes can make ancient items appear new without implying they are fake [16][17]. Group 3: Evidence and Methodology - Tang references carbon dating and archaeological records to support the authenticity of the artifacts, including the sandals [32][49]. - The article highlights that many ancient artifacts, including those from China, can appear well-preserved due to environmental conditions and restoration efforts [44][51]. - The debate illustrates the challenges of validating historical artifacts and the need for rigorous methodologies in historical research [60][61].

Group 1 - The article discusses the concept of "Western pseudo-history" and aims to highlight the cognitive warfare tactics used against historical verification activities, suggesting that these attacks may originate from abroad [2][3] - It emphasizes that many proponents of "Western pseudo-history" lack the capability to engage in proper historical verification and may be easily manipulated by cognitive warfare tactics [3][4] - The article intends to provide a comprehensive methodology for effectively countering cognitive warfare related to "Western pseudo-history" [5][6] Group 2 - A broad methodology for dismantling cognitive warfare related to "Western pseudo-history" is proposed, emphasizing the need for a systematic approach to identify and counteract logical fallacies [6][8] - The article presents a case study involving the "Agamemnon's golden mask" to illustrate how cognitive warfare can create misleading conclusions based on flawed premises [10][11] - It highlights the importance of understanding the historical context and the evolution of human practices, such as beard trimming, to debunk erroneous claims made by proponents of "Western pseudo-history" [18][22] Group 3 - The article introduces the concept of "negative logic," which involves deducing premises from conclusions, as a tool for identifying cognitive traps in arguments [28][29] - It outlines the characteristics of negative logic, including its potential for innovative thinking and its application in cognitive warfare [31][32] - The methodology aims to empower individuals with scientific literacy to effectively counter cognitive warfare attacks [49][50] Group 4 - The article critiques the argument that "Homer's epics are false" by analyzing the cognitive foundations of such claims, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination of memory capabilities in ancient cultures [52][53] - It discusses the significance of understanding the historical context of oral traditions and memory in ancient societies to refute claims against the authenticity of historical texts [54][55] - The article also addresses the cognitive warfare tactics that exploit misconceptions about the capabilities of ancient civilizations [56][57]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "Western pseudohistory" and the belief that the "Yongle Encyclopedia" is a symbol of civilization superiority, reflecting a cultural defense mechanism in response to globalization and historical grievances [7][34][41]. Group 1: Historical Context - The "Yongle Encyclopedia," compiled during the Ming Dynasty, is presented as a monumental work that symbolizes ancient wisdom and knowledge [4][20]. - The belief that Western civilizations have fabricated their histories, particularly regarding ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, is central to the pseudohistory narrative [7][8]. Group 2: Cultural Phenomenon - The popularity of the "Yongle Encyclopedia" as a source of knowledge stems from a societal reverence for encyclopedias, particularly during periods of rapid social change and educational competition [21][22]. - The article highlights the historical context of encyclopedia consumption as a reflection of societal aspirations for knowledge and security during transformative periods [22][26]. Group 3: Psychological Drivers - The belief in the "Yongle Encyclopedia" as a source of all knowledge is linked to a collective desire for recognition and dignity in the face of cultural and historical challenges [34][35]. - The rise of pseudohistory narratives is seen as a coping mechanism for feelings of loss and insecurity in a rapidly changing world [34][37]. Group 4: Contemporary Relevance - The article notes a significant increase in videos promoting or refuting pseudohistory on platforms like Bilibili, indicating a growing interest in these narratives among younger audiences [37]. - The discussion emphasizes that engaging in pseudohistory may not effectively address the underlying issues of cultural identity and historical understanding [38][41].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of the "Yongle Dadian" (永乐大典) becoming a symbol in conspiracy theories, particularly in the context of Western pseudohistory, and explores the psychological and cultural factors driving this belief [1][3][24]. Group 1: Historical Context and Significance - The "Yongle Dadian" was compiled under the Ming Dynasty by Emperor Zhu Di, resulting in over 22,000 volumes, which has been viewed as a key to understanding ancient wisdom and civilization [1]. - The text has been misappropriated in modern narratives that claim Western civilizations have plagiarized Chinese knowledge, particularly the "Yongle Dadian" [3][4]. Group 2: Cultural and Psychological Factors - The belief in the "Yongle Dadian" as a source of all knowledge reflects a broader phenomenon of "encyclopedic worship," where people seek comprehensive knowledge as a form of security in rapidly changing societies [10][15]. - This phenomenon is not unique to China; similar trends have been observed globally, where encyclopedias serve as symbols of truth and knowledge during times of societal transformation [11][13]. Group 3: Modern Implications and Trends - The rise of conspiracy theories surrounding the "Yongle Dadian" correlates with a growing sentiment of cultural defensiveness in response to globalization and perceived Western dominance [24][27]. - Videos promoting or refuting foreign pseudohistory have surged in popularity, particularly among younger audiences, indicating a cultural backlash against Western narratives [27][30].