Special pleading
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[edit] Definition
Special Pleading is a formal logical fallacy where a participant introduces details by alleging a need to take in special considerations without without proper criticism of the considerations. The most general structure of this argument runs something like the following:
- Person A accepts standard(s) S and applies them to others in circumtance(s) C.
- Person A is in circumstance(s) C.
- Therefore A is exempt from S.
This is a fallacy because s/he claiming that he is exempt from certain principles or standards yet s/he provides no good reason for his exemption.
[edit] Example
Example 1:
- Antagonist: God doesn't have to be created by a creator, He is the beginning and the end!
Example 2:
- Antagonist: I think that all people who use drugs should be sent to prison.
- Protagonist: You defended your sister when she was caught with cocaine; why did you do that?
- Antagonist : Well, she's my sister. That's different.
[edit] Exceptions to the Rule
This fallacy violates the Principle of Relevant Difference. This principal states that two people can be treated differently if there is a relevant difference between them. Of course, the principal means that you can treat people differently. Example:
- Protagonist: John, you never work, while Michael stay late every day working. he has contributed more to the company in a day than you ever had. Therefore, I am giving him the raise.
Of course, this is entirely justified.
