What it sounds like
- No one has disproven this theory, so it must be true.
- "No one proved the rumor is false, so it is probably true." The absence of a cleanup crew is not evidence of a parade.
Logical fallacy
Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming something is true because it has not been proven false, or false because it has not been proven true.
Classic tell: No one has disproven this theory, so it must be true.
Back to the guideFurther explanation
What is happening underneath?
Claiming something is true because it has not been proven false, or false because it has not been proven true.
A lack of disproof is treated as proof, or a lack of proof is treated as disproof. Unknown does not mean confirmed.
How to tell
- The claim rests on what has not been shown rather than what has been shown.
Why people use it
- Uncertainty is uncomfortable, so the mind tries to close the file early.
How to combat it
- Say: "What positive evidence supports the claim?"
Manipulation watch
How this gets used on people.
- Conspiracy content thrives here: if authorities cannot disprove every imagined detail, believers are told the theory has gained strength.