Argumentum ad verecundiam relies on what type of support?

Argumentum ad verecundiam, also known as the appeal to authority, relies on the opinion of a famous figure or authority to support a claim. This type of reasoning posits that if someone who is recognized as an expert or holds a significant status endorses a particular viewpoint, that viewpoint is likely to be valid or true. This approach can be persuasive, particularly when the authority is relevant to the subject matter being discussed.

For example, if a well-known scientist speaks on a controversial issue, their reputation might lend undue weight to their arguments, regardless of the underlying evidence. It’s important to critically evaluate the credentials and relevance of the authority cited, as this type of support does not inherently provide a guarantee of accuracy or truth. Thus, the reliance on opinion from prominent figures is a defining characteristic of argumentum ad verecundiam.