An argument ad verecundiam claims something is true because a recognized authority said it. Experts matter, but authority does not replace evidence or method.
Example
“A famous guru says this energy therapy cures cancer. Therefore it works.”
(No trials, data, or independent verification are provided.)
Applied example (political)
“A former president said the measure is correct, therefore it is.”
(Office does not replace evidence.)
Applied example (mystical)
“A recognized master guarantees this technique, so it is true.”
(Authority is not proof.)
Why it is fallacious
- The authority may be outside their domain of competence.
- Even experts can be wrong or speak without evidence.
- Prestige is confused with proof.
How to spot it
- A name is cited instead of verifiable data.
- Status is invoked: “X said it”, “Y endorses it”.
- Debate is shut down: “there is nothing to discuss”.
How to respond
- Ask for evidence and method, not just who said it.
- Check whether the source has real expertise in the topic.
- Compare with consensus, studies, and replication.
Related: Magister dixit
Fallacies
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