Argumentum ad superbiam uses pride or vanity to push acceptance. A conclusion is framed as “worthy” of superior people, pressuring the audience to agree.
Example
“Smart people do not doubt this. If you are brilliant, you know it is true.”
(Agreement is demanded to protect pride.)
Applied example (political)
“True patriots support this cause.”
(Identity pride replaces evidence.)
Applied example (mystical)
“Only elevated souls understand this truth.”
(Spiritual status substitutes proof.)
Why it is fallacious
- Self-esteem does not validate an argument.
- It manipulates the desire to belong or stand out.
- It avoids real evidence.
How to spot it
- Flattery or status labels used as the main argument.
- “Only the best understand this.”.
- Acceptance out of fear of exclusion.
How to respond
- Ask for data and method, not praise.
- Remember truth does not depend on ego.
- Separate identity from evidence.