special pleading

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special pleading

A lawyer presents a case of special pleading to the judge.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • (Law) A legal pleading that introduces new facts to counter or avoid the allegations made by the opposing side. It is a formal legal argument presented in court.
    • (General Use) A fallacious argument that ignores or dismisses all unfavorable evidence while focusing only on points that support one's own case. It is a form of biased reasoning where someone applies different standards or rules to their own position.
Usage Examples

  • Noun (Legal Context):

    • The defense attorney filed a special pleading to introduce evidence of the defendant's state of mind.
    • The judge allowed the special pleading as it presented a new and relevant factual scenario.

  • Noun (Logical Fallacy Context):

    • His excuse was just special pleading; he expects everyone else to follow the rules, but he doesn't have to.
    • The politician's argument was dismissed as special pleading because it failed to address the main criticisms.
Advanced Usage
  • "to engage in special pleading": to argue using this fallacious method.
    • You can't just engage in special pleading every time the data contradicts your theory.
  • The term is often used in debates, critiques, and analytical writing to point out a lack of logical consistency or intellectual honesty.
Variants and Related Words
  • Plead (verb): To make an earnest appeal or a formal statement in a legal case.
  • Pleading (noun): The formal presentation of claims and defenses by parties in a legal action.
Synonyms
  • (For the fallacy): Double standard, biased argument, one-sided reasoning, inconsistency.
  • (For the legal term): Responsive pleading, affirmative defense (in specific contexts).
Related Idioms & Phrases
  • "Making an exception for oneself": This idiom captures the core idea of the fallacious use of "special pleading."
    • He's making an exception for himself, which is a classic case of special pleading.
  • "Having it both ways": Similar to special pleading, this implies applying contradictory standards to suit one's argument.
    • You can't have it both ways; that's special pleading.
special pleading

A lawyer presents a case of special pleading to the judge.

Noun
  1. (law) a pleading that alleges new facts in avoidance of the opposing allegations
  2. an argument that ignores all unfavorable evidence