The reification fallacy (or hypostatization) turns abstract concepts into things with their own will or agency. It is common in mystical or political rhetoric.
Example
“History demands this sacrifice.”
(An abstraction is treated as an agent.)
Applied example (political)
“The market punishes those who disobey.”
(Will is attributed to an abstract aggregate.)
Applied example (mystical)
“Karma decided this would happen to you.”
(A concept is turned into a causal agent.)
Why it is fallacious
- It turns concepts into causal entities.
- It replaces explanations with metaphors.
- It hides human decisions behind abstract “forces”.
How to spot it
- Will or intention is attributed to abstract ideas or collectives.
- “Society”, “the market”, or “history” are treated as decision makers.
- No concrete mechanisms are provided.
How to respond
- Ask for real actors and processes.
- Translate the claim into verifiable actions.
- Point out that abstractions do not act by themselves.