Appeal to probability

An appeal to probability (or appeal to possibility, also known as possibiliter ergo probabiliter, "possibly, therefore probably") is the logical fallacy of taking something for granted because it is possibly the case.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn The fact that an event is possible does not imply that the event is probable, nor that the event was realized.

Example

A fallacious appeal to possibility:

If it can happen Template:Small.

It will happen. Template:Small

Something can go wrong Template:Small.

Therefore, something will go wrong Template:Small.

If I do not bring my umbrella Template:Small

It will rain. Template:Small.

Murphy's law is a (typically deliberate, tongue-in-cheek) invocation of the fallacy.Template:Fact

See also

• Slippery slope

References

Bibliography

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