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Editorial Policy

Our Mission

The Tarot Encyclopedia is a free knowledge base dedicated to the history, symbolism, and cultural heritage of tarot — its decks, traditions, interpretations, and artistic legacy.

All content is published under an open-access model. There are no paywalls, mandatory registrations, or barriers to reading.

For details on our content creation process, see the FolkUp Editorial Workflow.

Educational and Cultural Context

Tarot content on this site is presented for educational and cultural purposes only. We explore tarot as a historical and artistic phenomenon — not as a method of prediction, diagnosis, or decision-making. All interpretations are presented in their historical and cultural context.

Neutrality and Fact-Based Coverage

We present documented facts and diverse perspectives without taking editorial sides. Our goal is to inform, not to persuade.

Where scholarly debate or conflicting interpretations exist, we present all notable viewpoints with appropriate context and sourcing. We do not endorse one interpretation over another unless there is an overwhelming scholarly consensus.

We respect our readers’ ability to form their own conclusions based on well-presented evidence.

Content Markers

To help readers assess the reliability and nature of the information they encounter, we use the following content markers:

  • [FOLKLORE] — Information based on oral traditions, esoteric traditions, or popular beliefs that may not have documentary confirmation.
  • [DISPUTED] — Claims or interpretations where credible sources disagree or where the evidence is inconclusive.
  • [UNVERIFIED] — Information that appears plausible but has not yet been confirmed through independent sources.

These markers are not judgments — they are tools for transparency. They help readers understand the evidentiary basis of the content they are reading.

Sensitive Topics

Some topics may involve religious, spiritual, or culturally sensitive matters. We approach these subjects with care and respect, always prioritising factual accuracy and balanced representation.

Articles on sensitive topics carry appropriate editorial notices and are subject to additional review before publication.

Sources and Verification

We strive to support all factual claims with references to reliable sources. Our preferred sources include:

  • Academic publications and peer-reviewed research in art history, cultural studies, and religious studies
  • Museum catalogues and archival records
  • Established reference works and encyclopedias
  • Reputable journalistic and cultural sources
  • Primary sources (historical documents, original deck publications, artists’ statements)

Articles marked as verified require a minimum of two independent sources. We welcome corrections and additional source suggestions from our readers.

Feedback and Corrections

We value accuracy and welcome feedback from our readers. If you find an error, have additional information, or disagree with how a topic has been presented, please contact us:

All substantive corrections are reviewed by our editorial team and, when confirmed, applied promptly with appropriate acknowledgment.

Commitment

Our editorial work is guided by these principles:

  • Legality — All content complies with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Respect — We treat all subjects, cultures, and viewpoints with dignity.
  • Openness — Our content is freely accessible, and our editorial process is transparent.
  • Accuracy — We prioritise factual correctness and clearly mark uncertainty.
  • Accessibility — We strive to make our content understandable and available to the widest possible audience.