Appeal to Authority
Spot the Fallacy Team
Team Content
An appeal to authority claims something is true because an authority figure says it, without adequate evidence.
An appeal to authority claims something is true because an authority figure says it, without adequate evidence.
Why it is a fallacy
A claim needs evidence that connects the reasons to the conclusion. This fallacy skips that connection or replaces it with a shortcut.
Examples
- A famous actor says this diet works, so it must be true.
- The CEO believes it, so it has to be correct.
- This claim is right because a professor said so.
How to respond
- Check whether the authority is qualified in the specific domain.
- Ask for the evidence, not just the endorsement.
- Look for consensus or data, not a single voice.
Related fallacies
FAQ
Is expert opinion always a fallacy?
No. Expert testimony can be useful when it is relevant and supported by evidence.
How do I evaluate authority?
Consider expertise, conflicts of interest, and whether their claim is backed by data.
References
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Fallacies)
- Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Logic and Critical Thinking)
- Nizkor Project (Fallacies)