BC or BCE: What's the Correct Terminology?

When it comes to historical dating, the terms BC (Before Christ) and BCE (Before Common Era) are often used interchangeably to indicate the time period before the widely recognized anno Domini (AD) or Common Era (CE) dating. The debate over which is more accurate and appropriate has sparked a nuanced conversation in the realm of historical and religious scholarship. This article explores the origins, usage, and reasoning behind these terms.

Understanding BC and BCE

The terms BC and BCE are essentially referring to the same chronological time frame. BC stands for Before Christ, implying the years before the traditional date of Christ's birth as determined by the Gregorian calendar. BCE, on the other hand, is a secular alternative that means Before Common Era. Both BC and BCE refer to the same period, with BCE being a non-religious equivalent that is often preferred by those who are uncomfortable with the religious connotations of BC.

Origins and Usage

The term Common Era, used as the secular equivalent of AD (Anno Domini), was first introduced in English in 1708. It became more common among Jewish scholars in the 18th century and gained widespread usage in the late 20th century. The terms BC and CE (Common Era) are generally older, with BC being in use for many centuries and CE gaining traction in the later part of the 20th century.

Historically, BC and AD were the dominant terms for dating. The timeline was developed to commemorate the birth of Christ and the subsequent events in Christian history. However, the introduction of BCE and CE was an attempt to be more inclusive and secular. This change aims to be more sensitive to a diverse populace that does not identify with the religious implications associated with BC and AD.

Arguments for Sticking with BC and AD

While BC and BCE refer to the same period of time, some argue for the continued use of BC and AD. This is based on the belief that the traditional terms are more intuitive and widely recognized. The author of this article personally uses BC and AD due to their familiarity and the natural flow of language. Additionally, changing to BCE and CE is seen as an unnecessary shift, as the traditional terms have a well-established meaning and are deeply ingrained in cultural and historical contexts.

There is also the argument that changing the terms would remove the historical significance and understanding of the timeline developed through the centuries. It’s suggested that if we wanted to start a new era based on a different historical event, like the invention of the printing press or the discovery of DNA, we could do so but argue that the current system is well-understood and meaningful.

Conclusion

The issue of using BC or BCE is more about personal and cultural preferences than a matter of correctness. Both terms are equally valid and accurate, but their usage may depend on the audience and the context. For those seeking a more secular and inclusive approach, BCE and CE may be preferred. However, for those who value the traditional significance and familiarity of the terms, BC and AD might be more appropriate.

Ultimately, the choice between BC and BCE depends on a person's perspective and the context in which the historical dates are being used. Whether one opts for the new or the old terms, the timeline remains the same, capturing the vast span of human history from the initially agreed timeline of Christ's birth to the present day.