ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-CORE-242-007 · ATLAS 251

Argumentum ad baculum

A fallacious argument that compels assent through threat, coercion, or reference to adverse consequences.

Explanation

A fallacious argument that compels assent through threat, coercion, or reference to adverse consequences. It replaces the examination of reasons with the power to impose consequences.

Example

If you disagree, you will lose your place; therefore my claim is correct.

Counterexample

Merely mentioning “Argumentum ad baculum” without the described function is not a sufficient example.

Distinction

A warning about genuinely relevant consequences is not automatically an argumentum ad baculum.

Effect on thought and perception

It replaces the examination of reasons with the power to impose consequences.

Resonance

In the atlas, Argumentum ad baculum closes 1 previously unresolved reference line(s) and opens controlled paths of thought.

Etymology

Technical core term; individual etymological review pending

Provenance

ATLAS 241 residual-case triage → profile candidate 241-A → source and neighbourhood cross-check → ATLAS 242

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Argumentum ad baculum“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-CORE-242-007. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-CORE-242-007

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-CORE-242-007

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