Daily Source Bias Check: Ancient Origins – Conspiracy/Pseudoscience

Sources in the Conspiracy-Pseudoscience category may publish unverifiable information that is not always supported by evidence. These sources may be untrustworthy for credible/verifiable information, therefore fact checking and further investigation is recommended on a per article basis when obtaining information from these sources. See all Conspiracy-Pseudoscience sources.

• Overall, we rate Ancient Origins a moderate conspiracy and pseudoscience source based on promotion of ancient aliens. We also rate them Mixed for factual reporting as they also publish credible pro-science information.

Detailed Report

Factual Reporting: MIXED
Country: Ireland
World Press Freedom Rank: Ireland 15/180

History

Founded in 2011, Ancient Origins is a website that reports on ancient history of earth and the human species. According to their mission “The goal of Ancient Origins is to highlight recent archaeological discoveries, peer-reviewed academic research and evidence, as well as offering alternative viewpoints and explanations of science, archaeology, mythology, religion and history around the globe. We’re the only Pop Archaeology site combining scientific research with out-of-the-box perspectives.”

Ancient Origins publishes a quarterly magazine as well.

The website does not list an editor and articles display the author, however biographical information is not provided. In general there is a lack of transparency.

Funded by / Ownership

Ancient Origins does not openly disclose ownership on the website, however it appears to by copyrighted to Stella Novus. According to their about page “Stella Novus was established in Ireland in 2016, to create, deliver and promote quality content. The company’s first project was Ancient Origins, a news and educational website specializing in archaeology, ancient history, human origins and mythologies from all over the world.” Revenue is generated through advertising, membership fees and magazine subscriptions.

Analysis / Bias

In review, Ancient Origins publishes news and information regarding ancient history and human origins. Although many articles on this website are factual and pro-science there are some that fall under the pseudoarchaeology and pseudohistory tag. It should be noted that the website disclaims they publish alternative viewpoints. This story, for example is properly sourced and true Lost temple of the Pharaoh Ptolemy IV found in Egypt. While this story promotes ancient aliens speculation: Did Ancient Aliens Impart Advanced Astronomical Knowledge to the Dogon Tribe?. In this story they report on current alien visitations Ex US Military Veteran claims to have worked with aliens. This story originates from the website openminds.tv. In general, Ancient Origins does what it states in its mission. It publishes credible verifiable information alongside unproven alternative pseudoscience.

Overall, we rate Ancient Origins a moderate conspiracy and pseudoscience source based on promotion of ancient aliens. We also rate them Mixed for factual reporting as they also publish credible pro-science information. (D. Van Zandt 5/12/2017) Updated (10/4/2019)

Source: https://www.ancient-origins.net