Appeal to consequences
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An '''appeal to consequences''' is a logical fallacy in which the truth of a proposition depends on its consequences: | An '''appeal to consequences''' is a logical fallacy in which the truth of a proposition depends on its consequences: | ||
| − | * If A is true, | + | * If A is true, then B. B is good, therefore A is true. |
| − | * If A is true, | + | * If A is true, then B. B is bad, therefore A is false. |
The latter form is the [[argument from adverse consequences]]. In fact, the appeal to consequences is simply a generalized form of the argument from adverse consequences; desirable as well as undesirable outcomes are included. | The latter form is the [[argument from adverse consequences]]. In fact, the appeal to consequences is simply a generalized form of the argument from adverse consequences; desirable as well as undesirable outcomes are included. | ||
Revision as of 23:01, 30 September 2009
An appeal to consequences is a logical fallacy in which the truth of a proposition depends on its consequences:
- If A is true, then B. B is good, therefore A is true.
- If A is true, then B. B is bad, therefore A is false.
The latter form is the argument from adverse consequences. In fact, the appeal to consequences is simply a generalized form of the argument from adverse consequences; desirable as well as undesirable outcomes are included.
Appeal to consequences is a logical fallacy for the simple reason that wanting something to be true does not make it true.
Example
- "Religion promises an eternity in heaven. Don't you want to go to heaven?"
- "God must exist because my life would be meaningless without him."
