Conspiracy Theory
A logical fallacy where a claim is defended by asserting that evidence against it is part of a cover-up, and challenges to that assertion are taken as further proof of the conspiracy. It exploits cognitive biases to maintain beliefs despite contradictory facts.
THE IDEA
Conspiracy Theory
(also known as: canceling hypothesis, cover-ups)
Description: Explaining that your claim cannot be proven or verified because the truth is being hidden, and evidence destroyed. When that reason is challenged as not being true or accurate, the challenge is often presented as just another attempt to cover up the truth, and presented as further evidence that the original claim is true.
Logical Form:
- Person 1 makes a claim that lacks evidence.
- Person 2 points out the lack of evidence.
- Person 1 claims the evidence is being hidden or destroyed, and that Person 2 is part of the cover-up.
Example #1:
- Claim: "The moon landing was faked."
- Response: "But there are thousands of photos, videos, and moon rocks."
- Counterclaim: "Those are all fabrications by NASA to hide the truth. Your doubt is exactly what they want – you're part of the problem."
Example #2:
- Claim: "Vaccines cause autism."
- Response: "Multiple large-scale studies show no link."
- Counterclaim: "Those studies are funded by pharmaceutical companies to cover up the truth. The researchers are bribed or threatened."
Explanation: In both examples, evidence against the claim is reclassified as evidence of a cover-up. If every possible objection confirms the claim, there is no apparent way to test it. Allegations of hidden evidence or bribery need support of their own; asserting them does not establish the original claim.
Exception: Sometimes, there really are conspiracies and cover ups. The more evidence one can present for a cover-up, the better. But we must remember that possibility does not equal probability.
Tip: Take time to question any conspiracy theories in which you believe are true. Do the research with an open mind.
When to use it
When assessing historical or political events that have alternative explanations.
When evaluating health or science claims that contradict established research.
When a friend or relative presents a theory that relies on secret knowledge or cover-ups.
When you find yourself dismissing counterevidence as part of a hidden agenda.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Moon Landing Hoax
A proponent claims the moon landing was faked. When presented with extensive evidence, they argue that NASA destroyed or fabricated it, and that questioning the cover-up is itself part of the conspiracy.
Vaccine-Autism Link
Despite numerous studies debunking a link, believers claim the research is funded by pharmaceutical companies who hide the truth. Any criticism of the theory is seen as proof of the cover-up.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What specific evidence would be sufficient to convince you that a conspiracy theory you hold might be false?
How likely is it that a large group of people could maintain a perfect secret for decades without any leaks?
When evaluating a claim, how do you distinguish between a genuine conspiracy and a conspiracy theory fallacy?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Logically Fallacious - The Ultimate Collection of Over 300 Logical Fallacies