Conflation

For other uses, see Conflation (disambiguation).
Flag of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, a heraldic emblem which displays conflated or "con-joined" images

Conflation is the merging of two or more sets of information, texts, ideas, or opinions into one, often in error.[1] Conflation is defined as 'fusing blending', but is often used colloquially as 'being equal to' - treating two similar but disparate concepts as the same. Merriam Webster suggested this shift in usage happened relatively recently, entering their dictionary in 1973.[2]

In logic, it is the practice of treating two distinct concepts as one, which produces errors or misunderstandings as a fusion of distinct subjects tends to obscure analysis of relationships which are emphasized by contrasts.[3] However, if the distinctions between the two concepts may appear to be superficial, intentional conflation can be desirable for the sake of conciseness and recall.

  1. ^ Haught, John F. (1995). Science and Religion: From Conflict to Conversation. Paulist Press. p. 13. ISBN 978-0-8091-3606-3.
  2. ^ "The Sometimes Subtle Difference Between 'Conflate' and 'Equate'". www.merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 2022-07-23.
  3. ^ Haught, John F. (1995). Science and Religion: From Conflict to Conversation. Paulist Press. p. 14. ISBN 978-0-8091-3606-3.