Theory that \'Celts\' are a myth

[Sean Manning]

I wouldn't call it a strawman, because its very clear that many people believe in an ancient Celtic ethnicity, or that we can use the term to neatly label ancient populations (but see the mess along the Rhine, where its clear that 'Celtic' and 'Germanic' languages and material culture were intermingled). It may not be a view held by experts though. Its significant that "The Atlantic Celts" was written for a popular audience more than an academic one.

A parallel would be the arguments among medievalists about whether the modern jargon of fiefs (edit: corrected typo), vassals, and feudal/feusalism is useful. While they have some connection to the sources, they do not have firmly accepted definitions, and they are often used as a mould into which the evidence is hammered.