The grand, master technique that combines all the above. It involves continuously and fluidly redefining both the specific evidence required (the proof) and the ultimate objective or standard (the goal) in a coordinated, relentless dance to avoid ever acknowledging a point. It’s the rhetorical equivalent of a shifting maze.
Moving the Proofgoalpost Example: In a debate about historical injustice:
First, they demand documentary archives. When provided, they say the archives are incomplete (moving the proofpost).
They then say the real proofgoal is a firsthand account from a specific leader. When an account is found, they dismiss it as biased (moving the goalproof).
This integrated, evasive strategy is moving the proofgoalpost.
First, they demand documentary archives. When provided, they say the archives are incomplete (moving the proofpost).
They then say the real proofgoal is a firsthand account from a specific leader. When an account is found, they dismiss it as biased (moving the goalproof).
This integrated, evasive strategy is moving the proofgoalpost.
by Dumuabzu February 8, 2026
Get the Moving the Proofgoalpost mug.When, after an opponent successfully engages within a prescribed logical framework, the arguer changes the rules of what constitutes “valid logic.” This can mean switching logical systems (from deductive to inductive), redefining fallacies on the fly, or declaring that a formally valid syllogism is now invalid because it’s “based on a false premise” they previously accepted.
Moving the Logicpost Example:
You use their preferred deductive logic to build a sound argument.
They respond: “Deduction is limited. Real-world problems require fuzzy logic, which your binary reasoning fails. Your point is logically simplistic.”
They’ve moved the logicpost from formal deduction to an amorphous alternative to evade your conclusion.
You use their preferred deductive logic to build a sound argument.
They respond: “Deduction is limited. Real-world problems require fuzzy logic, which your binary reasoning fails. Your point is logically simplistic.”
They’ve moved the logicpost from formal deduction to an amorphous alternative to evade your conclusion.
by Dumuabzu February 8, 2026
Get the Moving the Logicpost mug.The act of shifting the governing mode of reasoning mid-debate to sidestep a compelling point made within the previous framework. When an opponent effectively uses utilitarian reasoning, for instance, the arguer might suddenly insist that “true reason” must consider long-term existential risks or deontological rules, invalidating the prior calculation.
Moving the Reasonpost Example:
You use data-driven, utilitarian reasoning to support a policy.
They say, “Your short-term numbers are irrelevant. A truly reasonable person would think generationally about cultural precedent. You’re being myopic.”
They’ve moved the reasonpost from quantitative utility to vague, long-term cultural reasoning to avoid your data.
You use data-driven, utilitarian reasoning to support a policy.
They say, “Your short-term numbers are irrelevant. A truly reasonable person would think generationally about cultural precedent. You’re being myopic.”
They’ve moved the reasonpost from quantitative utility to vague, long-term cultural reasoning to avoid your data.
by Dumuabzu February 8, 2026
Get the Moving the Reasonpost mug.