A bias derived from the Scientific Slippery Slope, focusing on the perceived inevitability of a severe “reaction” to any tolerance of non‑scientific ideas. The bias holds that if society does not actively oppose even harmless spiritual or alternative practices, a reactionary backlash will install dangerous forms of irrationalism in their place. It treats the public as a pendulum that will swing violently from the first small concession to total unreason unless held in check. Reaction Bias is often used to justify aggressive, confrontational advocacy for scientific orthodoxy.
Example: “He argued that allowing creationist museums in rural areas would trigger a reaction bias—soon they’d be teaching it in public schools. The actual outcome was that the museum sat quietly, attended by few.”
by Dumu The Void March 25, 2026
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