Skeptic Bias

A bias where one applies skeptical standards unevenly—extremely high standards to claims one dislikes, and very low standards to claims one favors. The skeptic bias masquerades as intellectual virtue, but it is actually a form of motivated reasoning dressed in the language of doubt. True skepticism applies consistent criteria; skeptic bias is selective, often demanding “extraordinary evidence” for claims that challenge one's beliefs while accepting ordinary evidence for comfortable ones. It is common in online debates where participants call themselves skeptics but only doubt the other side.

Example: “He demanded randomized controlled trials for the benefits of meditation but accepted anecdotal reports of vaccine injuries as proof—skeptic bias, applying the standard that serves his position.”

Skeptic Bias by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal April 16, 2026