JLogical Fallacy

Appeal to Definition

Description

Appeal to Definition mistakes naming for knowing: a label is offered as though it settles the thing itself.

Why This Works

It works because definitions feel crisp, while reality is untidy. The mind prefers tidy words to difficult evidence.

Example 1

“By definition this is innovation, so it cannot be harmful.” Vocabulary is used to forbid observation.

Example 2

“This moderation is not censorship because policy defines it otherwise.” Administrative wording is made to outrank lived effect.