Paraproof
A term for a demonstration that is not a logically valid, rigorous proof but is considered persuasive or sufficient within a specific context – such as a court of law (beyond reasonable doubt), everyday reasoning (common sense), or qualitative research (thematic saturation). Paraproof does not meet the formal standards of mathematics or formal logic, but it is “proof enough” for practical purposes. In online debates, “paraproof” is often used to dismiss demands for absolute logical certainty: “You want a mathematical proof? That’s impossible in history. I offer paraproof – multiple converging testimonies and documents.” Critics argue that paraproof is a weasel word for insufficient evidence. Proponents say it acknowledges that different domains have different standards of demonstration.
Example: “He demanded a formal proof that the defendant was guilty. The lawyer replied: ‘In law, we use paraproof – beyond reasonable doubt, not Cartesian certainty. That’s the standard. If you want formal proof, become a mathematician, not a juror.’”
Paraproof by Dumu The Void May 27, 2026
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