argument from authority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "argument from authority" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to describe a logical fallacy where someone tries to prove their argument by citing an expert or figure of authority, rather than using evidence or logical reasoning. Example: "The politician's argument for implementing a new policy was weak, relying solely on the argument from authority of a well-known economist rather than providing any concrete evidence or data to support their claims."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Even in the best of times, argument from authority is generally a bad idea.

The New York Times

No, the point is that Mr. Bernanke's apostasy may help undermine the argument from authority — nobody who matters disagrees!

The New York Times

As St. Thomas [Aquinas] observed . . . in the field of reason, the argument from authority is the feeblest".

The New Yorker

This ploy, an example of a related logical fallacy called the argument from authority, taps our intuitive beliefs so forcefully that we psychology professors spend time training our introductory students to actively resist it.

The New York Times - Books

And if my own workmanlike efforts are inadequate to support the assertion – because, look, I was on deadline and the editor cut the best parts and nobody understands me, anyway – let me fall back, temporarily, on an argument from authority.

The Guardian - Books

The mode of dispute codifies a tactic in the Skeptic's ongoing fight with dogmatists: it is a weapon to be deployed when the dogmatist employs an argument from authority.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The dilemma for the public intellectual is to remember at all times that the point of the project is to remove arguments from authority.

The Guardian

MOST of the casual defenders of study I referenced below rely heavily on indignant assertions that the Lancet is a peer reviewed scientific journal, and who the hell are you to criticise anything written in its pages?Arguments from authority do carry some weight; I find the Lancet more reliable as a source of scientific information than my dry cleaner*.

The Economist

Arguments from authority carried great weight for him: the more illuminati one could cite, the better for one's argument.

SEP

Within informal logic, the key argument schemes discussed include arguments from authority, causal reasoning, arguments by analogy, and various forms of moral argument.

SEP

Force your arguments to stem from evidence, never from authority.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing complex topics, using the "argument from authority" can provide a starting point, but always supplement it with concrete evidence and logical reasoning to build a robust and persuasive case.

Common error

Avoid depending solely on the "argument from authority" without providing additional evidence or logical reasoning. Citing an expert is helpful, but a well-rounded argument requires more than just their endorsement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "argument from authority" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific type of argument. Ludwig shows that it's commonly used in academic, journalistic, and philosophical contexts to discuss and critique reasoning methods.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "argument from authority" is a noun phrase that describes a method of argumentation based on the endorsement of an authority figure. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While the phrase is acceptable, it's often associated with logical fallacies, suggesting it should be used cautiously and supplemented with evidence. When writing, remember that relying solely on the "argument from authority" can weaken your claims; bolster expert opinions with data and logical reasoning for a more persuasive and robust argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Appeal to authority

Changes the phrasing to a more direct description of the action of using authority as support.

Fallacy of authority

Highlights the logical fallacy aspect more explicitly.

Argument based on authority

Emphasizes the foundation of the argument being the authority figure.

Relying on expert opinion

Focuses on the act of depending on the opinion of an expert.

Using credentials as evidence

Shifts the focus to the use of credentials to support a claim.

Authoritative claim

Shortens the phrase, focusing on the nature of the claim being made.

Testimonial evidence

Highlights the use of testimonials as a form of evidence.

Reference to expertise

Focuses on citing expertise in support of an argument.

Quoting an authority

Specific to the act of quoting an authority figure.

Deferring to expert judgment

Emphasizes the act of yielding to the judgment of an expert.

FAQs

How can I effectively use the "argument from authority"?

Using the "argument from authority" effectively involves citing credible sources and experts, but always supplementing their opinions with data, evidence, and logical reasoning to create a well-supported argument.

When is the "argument from authority" considered a logical fallacy?

The "argument from authority" becomes a fallacy when it's the only basis for an argument, without any additional evidence or reasoning. It's also fallacious if the authority isn't an expert on the topic at hand, or if there's no consensus among experts.

What are some alternatives to the "argument from authority"?

Instead of relying solely on authority, consider using alternatives like "presenting empirical evidence", "logical reasoning", or "statistical analysis" to support your claims.

What is the difference between citing an expert and using the "argument from authority"?

Citing an expert provides context and can lend credibility to your argument, while using the "argument from authority" relies solely on the expert's opinion as proof, without offering any additional justification. A balanced approach combines expert opinions with other forms of evidence.