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 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
The fallacy of special pleading does not apply when we can invoke the Principle of Relevant Difference. This principle states that two people can be treated differently if there is a relevant difference between them. Of course, the principle means that you can treat different people differently. Example:
- Protagonist: John, you never work, while Michael stays late every day working. He has contributed more to the company in a day than you ever have. Therefore, I am giving him the raise.
Of course, this is entirely justified.
