Middle Ground Fallacy
Spot the Fallacy Team
Team Content
The middle ground fallacy assumes a compromise is always correct simply because it is between two extremes.
The middle ground fallacy assumes a compromise is always correct simply because it is between two extremes.
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
- One person says the Earth is round, another says it's flat, so it's probably half-round.
- If one budget says $0 and another says $100, the right answer must be $50.
- Since we disagree, the truth must be in the middle.
How to respond
- Evaluate evidence, not the position in the middle.
- Ask whether the compromise has independent support.
- Point out when one side is simply wrong.
Related fallacies
FAQ
Is compromise always bad?
No. Compromise can be practical, but it is not proof of truth.
How do I avoid the middle ground fallacy?
Judge claims by evidence, not by balance.
References
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Fallacies)
- Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Logic and Critical Thinking)
- Nizkor Project (Fallacies)