Argument from ignorance:
Evidential Fallacy
| Definition | Example |
| When it is sugggested that something is true because it has not been proven false, or false because it has not been proven to be true. | Fairies must exist since we’ve seen no definitive evidence falsifying their existence. |
| Also known as: appeal to ignorance | |
| Notes | |
| Phrases that often accompany this fallacy include “What are the odds!” and “Explain that!” The inability of a human to grasp the stochastic or conceptual complexities of a particular concept do not warrant the introduction of magic or a god or luck as an explanation.
Note that there is warrant to dismiss out-of-hand claims that are logically or physically impossible. If I claim I possess a square triangle, or a flying reindeer, you are warranted in stating unequivocally that I am wrong. |
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Case Study One
Some say we are warranted in believing that the Loch Ness Monster exists since there is no evidence to the contrary.
Keep in mind that a fallacious argument does not entail an erroneous position.
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