Special pleading is a logical fallacy where someone applies a standard, rule, or principle to others but unfairly exempts themselves (or their own case) without a valid justification.
Simple idea:
It’s basically saying:
“The rules apply to everyone… except me (or this case), because I say so.”
Example: “Everyone needs evidence to support their claims—but my belief doesn’t need evidence because it’s special.”
That’s special pleading because the person is avoiding the normal burden of proof without giving a solid reason.
Why it’s a problem: It breaks fair reasoning. If you make an exception for yourself, it’s just bias.
Another everyday example: A student says: “Deadlines are important, so everyone should submit on time… but I should get extra time because I’m stressed.”
(Others are also stressed, the rule should apply equally).
There are other examples of Special Pleading for example Two Tier Policing. Police action is carried out "normally" against law breakers but some classes or groups of people are treated with kid gloves. Or no action is taken against them at all.
For example the "normal" run of the legal system may see criminal cases being investigated by the Police and then brought to the Court within weeks or months.
Then there maybe other cases which have not been resolved even after five years, 10 years or more. The delays maybe for no good reason. That is another example of Special Pleading.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
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