Special pleading is a fallacy in which someone applies a double standard to a situation, arguing for an exception to a rule or principle that they would not accept in a similar situation. It is a form of biased reasoning that can lead to unfair or illogical conclusions. Special pleading can take many forms, from making excuses for one's own behavior to demanding special treatment or privileges. It is often used to justify beliefs or actions that are otherwise difficult to defend. One common example of special pleading is when someone argues that they should be exempt from a rule or law because of their unique circumstances, while ignoring similar circumstances that apply to others. For instance, a person might argue that they should be allowed to park in a no-parking zone because they are running late for an appointment, while ignoring the fact that others might also be running late and need to find parking elsewhere. This type of reasoning is fallacious because it applies a double standard to the situation, treating oneself differently than others in a similar situation. Another example of special pleading is when someone argues for an exception to a rule or principle based on their personal beliefs or preferences, without providing a rational justification for the exception. For instance, a person might argue that they should be allowed to skip a required course in school because they find the subject boring, while ignoring the fact that the course is required for all students and provides important knowledge and skills. This type of reasoning is fallacious because it is based on personal preference rather than logical reasoning. In conclusion, special pleading is a fallacy in which someone applies a double standard to a situation, arguing for an exception to a rule or principle that they would not accept in a similar situation. It is a form of biased reasoning that can lead to unfair or illogical conclusions. Special pleading can take many forms, from making excuses for one's own behavior to demanding special treatment or privileges. It is important to recognize and avoid this fallacy in order to think critically and make sound judgments.
Fallacy, Biased reasoning, Double standard, Unfair, Illogical
CITATION : "Matthew Thompson. 'Special Pleading.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=361789 (Accessed on July 05, 2025)"
Special pleading is when someone makes excuses for their own behaviour or opinions, but doesn’t accept the same excuses from others. It is when someone asks for special treatment or the rules to be bent for them, but not for other people. It is like when a child says “but everyone else is doing it” to try and get away with something. Special pleading is a type of thinking that can be unfair, and it can lead to people making wrong decisions or forming wrong opinions.
Cognitive bias, logical fallacy, excuse-making, double standard.
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