"But it works" Fallacy

The logical error of justifying a dysfunctional system by pointing to its occasional successes, often deployed in defense of late-stage capitalism when someone mentions poverty, inequality, or environmental destruction. The argument goes: "Sure, there are problems, but look at all the iPhones! Look at the economic growth! It works!" This ignores that "works" is doing a lot of heavy lifting—defining success as "some people are very rich" and "you can get Amazon packages in two days" while conveniently overlooking the millions who are struggling, the planet that's burning, and the democracy that's for sale. The "but it works" fallacy is the intellectual equivalent of praising a car because the radio plays, while the engine is on fire and the brakes are failing.

"But it works" Fallacy Example: "When she pointed out that millions of Americans can't afford healthcare, he responded with the 'but it works' fallacy. 'We have the best hospitals in the world!' he said. 'Capitalism works!' He was in the best hospital, ignoring that she couldn't afford to get in. The system was working great—for him. That's kind of the point."

by Dumu The Void February 15, 2026

"But It Works" Fallacy

A fallacy where someone defends a dysfunctional system, practice, or institution by pointing to its functional outcomes, ignoring the human and ecological costs, the alternatives that might work better, and the unsustainable nature of the "success." Classic in defenses of late-stage capitalism: "But it works!" while pointing to technological innovation or GDP growth, ignoring inequality, ecological collapse, labor exploitation, and the fact that "works" is doing a lot of ideological work. The fallacy lies in treating partial functionality as full justification, immediate outcomes as long-term sustainability, and selective metrics as comprehensive evaluation. It's the logical form of "the economy is doing great" while the planet burns and people struggle to afford housing.

"But It Works" Fallacy "Amazon delivers packages in hours—capitalism works! That's the 'But It Works' Fallacy. Works for whom? At what cost? For how long? Delivery speed doesn't excuse warehouse conditions, environmental impact, or destroyed local economies. 'It works' is not an argument—it's a confession that you're not counting the costs."

by Dumu The Void February 28, 2026

Not how that works

Nonononono.

Hym Iam "Not how that works. I'm not intersubjectively the zero to you, you are still the zero to you shit-head."

by Hym Iam March 5, 2026

Bath & Body Works

The middle school girls who bought their first perfume here grew up and now use this place to linger while the kids are at school. Despite the retail apocalypse this store is kept alive by this demographic and has no signs of closing anytime soon. They have some good products but it's nearly impossible to make your way around the store with all of the moms loitering and taking up space. Store associates are always friendly. They will offer samples or ask if you need help no matter who you are, but with all of the customers gossiping, arguing with other associates, and cackling at old Facebook jokes, they can barely hear you. The store's prices aren't bad and they always have sales, but the constant sales and generous return policy unfortunately attracts a lot of Karens and problematic customers. The brand has tried to expand their men's line and other products that compliment body care. This includes small home decor, accessories, and sleepwear. The sleepwear line got pulled from the shelves almost instantly due to suburban moms raising havoc on the internet. The reason? They didn't include a plus size line, therefore they were being discriminatory because their target demographic couldn't fit them.

Bath & Body Works' semi annual sale starts today, I'm heading to the mall after work.
Are you sure? All of the soccer moms are probably lining up outside the mall entrance as we speak. You should probably skip work and just go now.

I really want that snowman candle holder. But do I need it? I'm trying to be good.
Get it! You can always return it if you change your mind in a year. If you don't get it now, some unemployed stay at home mom will list it on Poshmark or Mercari for $200. She has to pay her bills somehow.

by Biz bestie June 22, 2025

That’s not how it works

Yes it is

You can’t just put RGB in a computer and be a better gamer, that’s not how it works. Yes it is

by Sub par size July 15, 2020

that's how the keyboard works

when your friend does something so stupid, you can respond with this simple phrase.

joe: yo bro i just broke my bedroom door
joe 2: i guess that's how the keyboard works

joe: bro i literally can't sleep at night stfu

by the blaster. August 16, 2023

We have no idea how AI works

Yeah, you didn't fucking come up with the thing so why the fuck would you?

Anthropic CEO "We have no idea how AI works."

Hym "Yeah, no shit retard. You're reverse engineering a thing of which you did not conceive."

Anthropic CEO "I know. We just stole the idea from the urban dictionary guy!"

by Hym Iam May 4, 2025