Visual infographic and fallacy summary: Witch Hunt
Definition & Logical Concept
You reject your opponent's view by labeling it as dangerous heresy, enemy propaganda, or a conspiracy without any proof.
Practical Debate Example
Speaker A: „I propose we consider reducing budgets for certain administrative offices.“
Speaker B (Fallacy): „That's exactly what an enemy of our country would propose to destabilize our institutions! You are a traitor!“
How to Counter & Defend
Return to pragmatism: 'Labeling my proposal a conspiracy is absurd. Let's evaluate the budgets and potential savings.'
Common Synonyms & Alternative Terms
witch hunt • witch-hunt • logical fallacy • debate manipulation
Psychological Mechanism: Why It Works
Rozptýlení osobní odpovědnosti ve velkém davu snižuje pocit viny a usnadňuje ospravedlnění přestupku.
Common Debate Scenarios
- encountering witch hunt in debate
- when someone says "That's exactly what an enemy of our country would propose to..."
Easily Confused With
Informal logical fallacy