What it sounds like
- I do not understand how evolution works, so it cannot be real.
- "I do not understand how that algorithm works, so it is fake." Many things survive not being personally understood before lunch.
Logical fallacy
Personal Incredulity
Saying something is false because you personally cannot understand or imagine it.
Classic tell: I do not understand how evolution works, so it cannot be real.
Back to the guideFurther explanation
What is happening underneath?
Saying something is false because you personally cannot understand or imagine it.
A claim is rejected because someone cannot imagine or understand it. Confusion is real; it is not a universal measuring instrument.
How to tell
- The argument moves from "I do not get it" to "it cannot be true."
Why people use it
- It protects pride and reduces cognitive effort.
How to combat it
- Say: "What expert explanation or evidence would help us evaluate it?"
Manipulation watch
How this gets used on people.
- Public figures use incredulity to mock complex science or policy so audiences feel smarter for dismissing it.