Lesson 19: Special Pleading

Spot the Faulty Logic #

“I know the rule says no phones in class, but my situation is different. I really need to check my messages because I’m expecting something important.”

Discussion: Talk with your teacher about this example. What’s wrong with claiming to be a special exception?

How/Why It’s Often Used #

We naturally see our own situations as unique. It’s easy to believe that the rules should apply to everyone else, but our circumstances are special. This kind of reasoning often happens when we want something we know we shouldn’t have, or when we want to avoid following a rule we find inconvenient.

People use special pleading to justify their own behavior while holding others to different standards. It’s common in discussions about rules, fairness, and responsibility.

Special Pleading in Action #

Did you spot the faulty logic? #

Everyone in class might have something they consider “important.” Without a truly compelling reason why this person’s situation is different (like a family emergency), they’re just asking to be exempt from a rule they want everyone else to follow.

Second Example #

“Yes, I know I said people shouldn’t leave dishes in the sink, but when I do it, it’s different because I’m really busy.”

The Flaw #

Being busy isn’t a unique condition - everyone is busy sometimes. If the rule against leaving dishes is reasonable, it should apply equally. Claiming a special exemption without a genuinely special reason is unfair.