Conspiracy Theory

Disciplines > Argument > Fallacies > Conspiracy Theory

Description | Discussion | Example | See also

Description

A is true. B is why the truth cannot be proven. So A is true.

Make a statement. Then explain why it cannot be proven. Accuse anyone who challenges the second statement of trying to cover up the truth. Use this attempt as proof that the original statement is true.

Example

Flying saucers have landed. The government is covering it up, which is why there is no evidence about it. Of course they deny it!

The senior managers in this company are bleeding it dry. But then they control the accounts, which is why finances seems to be healthy.

Discussion

This fallacy works by making it impossible to challenge the proving statement without proving it. The focus of attention is thus moved to the person trying to disprove the 'proof', and reframes their refutation as further proof.

Classification

Distraction

Also known as

Canceling Hypotheses