Fallacy Bias

A bias where someone assumes that if an argument contains any logical fallacy or cognitive bias, the conclusion must be false. This is itself a fallacy (the fallacy fallacy), but as a bias it reflects an overreliance on formal correctness. Fallacy bias shuts down inquiry: instead of engaging with evidence, the critic simply names a fallacy and walks away, acting as if the discussion is over. It mistakes the presence of imperfect reasoning for the absence of truth.

Fallacy Bias Example: “He pointed out a slight ad hominem in her speech, then declared everything she said invalid—fallacy bias, treating a rhetorical misstep as proof of falsehood.”

Fallacy Bias by Abzugal May 1, 2026

You-Are-Biased Fallacy

The rhetorical move of accusing someone of being "biased" as a way of dismissing their arguments without engagement. The accusation positions the target as incapable of objectivity, their views as mere prejudice. The fallacy lies in using the accusation as a refutation—as if demonstrating bias (which you haven't actually demonstrated) proves the arguments are wrong. But biased people can make correct arguments; bias doesn't automatically invalidate claims. The accusation functions to avoid engagement by attacking the person's epistemic character.

"I presented evidence about the effectiveness of a social program. Response: 'You're clearly biased—you work in that field.' That's You-Are-Biased Fallacy. Maybe I am biased; that doesn't make the evidence wrong. Engage the evidence, or admit you're not interested. Using bias as a dismissal is just ad hominem with a social science vocabulary."

You-Are-Biased Fallacy by Dumu The Void February 28, 2026