Argumentum ad populum (Latin for “appeal to the people”) is a fallacy when people accept what is popular as true without logical reasoning.
We live in a world of arguments.
Some arguments shape how we make decisions and how we live without us realizing it. Especially when the majority accepts one as the norm.
A good example of argumentum ad populum is: “University education is necessary for success.”
Since the majority believes that, everybody goes to university without logically thinking about it. They even pay ridiculous fees.
People don’t question how long it will take for them to get the investment back.
People don’t question if they can gain the same knowledge in any other way without spending 4-5 years of their lives. Or if they can use that time better by doing something else.
Getting a university degree is only checking the box to reach the next popular argument: “You need to find a job.”
Because everybody does that.
Argument from consensus
You can see argumentum ad populum everywhere: Politics, business, fashion… And not only at the macro level. It is also true for your workplace, friend group, or family.
If people around you have certain political views, habits, or opinions, you will likely acquire them without realizing it. It doesn’t mean they are all bad or wrong. The problem is accepting them without thinking.
Because if you don’t use your mind’s filter, sooner or later you find yourself believing in things that are false or harmful to you.
“Everybody says cigarettes are healthy, so it must be true.”
– A random guy from the 1940s.
So instead of “Everybody does that, so it must be true“, always think: “Everybody does that, but it still might not be true.”
And steel-man counter ideas to find what’s the right answer.
How to challenge argumentum ad populum
Think about your existing opinions, beliefs, and habits.
Have you acquired them with your logical reasoning?
Or because they were the consensus opinion among your friends, your colleagues, or your society?
Use these questions to identify and challenge argumentum ad populum:
- Are you following a belief or idea just because it’s popular? What evidence supports its validity?
- What are the potential risks or negative consequences of blindly following the majority’s opinion?
- Have you sought out alternative perspectives or information that challenges popular belief?
- Can you think of any historical examples where the majority’s opinion was proven wrong or harmful?
- Are there any logical fallacies or biases that could be influencing the popularity of this belief? Like collective survivorship bias?
- Is the belief supported by data or scientific evidence, or is it based on anecdotes and personal experiences?
- Who benefits from promoting or maintaining this popular belief, and what are their motivations?
- Are there any experts or credible sources who disagree with the majority’s opinion? What are their arguments?
- How would your life or decisions change if you stopped following popular belief and considered alternative viewpoints?
- What would it take for you to change your mind about this belief?
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