bandwagon fallacy
Say it: BAND-wag-un FAL-uh-see /ˈbandwaɡ(ə)n ˌfaləsi/ · noun
What “bandwagon fallacy” means
Claiming something is right because lots of people believe it.
More precisely: Arguing that something is true or right because many people believe or do it.
Example: “Millions buy lottery tickets, but thinking that makes it a smart investment is the bandwagon fallacy.”
When to use it
When popularity is offered as proof that an idea is true or a choice is good. Useful in discussions of trends.
Similar words
appeal to popularity, argumentum ad populum
Quick check
Your friend insists a diet must be healthy because everyone in their class follows it. What is this reasoning?
the bandwagon fallacy or expert consensus?
Show the answer
the bandwagon fallacy
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