Subtitles section Play video Print subtitles The argument from silence (argumentum ex silentio) is a logical fallacy where one infers a conclusion based on the absence of statements or evidence rather than on presence. It assumes that someone's silence on a matter is proof of ignorance or an implicit agreement with some position, which is not a valid assumption since silence can be due to many other reasons. Everyday Example: A teacher asks the class whether anyone disagrees with the proposed solution to a math problem. No one speaks up. The teacher then concludes, "Since no one has said anything, everyone must understand and agree with the solution." In this case, the teacher's conclusion is based on the students' silence. However, the silence may not indicate agreement or understanding; it could be due to other factors such as intimidation, apathy, or even the students' desire to avoid a longer discussion. Silence is not a reliable indicator of consent or concurrence, and assuming it is can be fallacious.
B1 silence teacher agreement conclusion argument solution What is The argument from silence (argumentum ex silentio)? 25 0 Jay posted on 2023/11/15 More Share Save Report Video vocabulary