Appeal to Human Nature
A logical fallacy that uses the vague and undefined concept of 'human nature' as justification for actions or behaviors, often to excuse responsibility or to argue that certain behaviors are inevitable.
THE IDEA
This fallacy is an error in reasoning that appeals to “human nature” without clearly defining it. More specifically, it occurs when one uses this vague notion as justification for a particular human action. For example:
-
Well, of course people worship celebrities—it’s just our nature to worship them!
-
Defendant: Your honor, it’s a dog-eat-dog world out there and I was doing what human nature is best at—defending and protecting myself! How can you hold someone responsible for his nature?
-
Humans by their very nature are political animals. Thus, it is clear that all individuals should participate in the political process.
It is important to remember that the appeal to human nature is often used as an excuse for certain behavior. The argument usually claims that one should not be held responsible because an action was simply in his or her “nature.” One problem with this kind of appeal is that the notion of human nature itself is unclear. Many people speak of the nature of human beings, but on closer inspection it is difficult to specifically and clearly state what this means and what specific actions fall into this category. Furthermore, even if we were able to arrive at a universal definition, it would not necessarily mean that human nature could be used as a license for any type of behavior.
When to use it
When analyzing ethical arguments that claim certain behaviors are inevitable because of human nature.
In legal contexts where defendants appeal to human nature to avoid responsibility.
When debating social norms, such as consumerism or violence, that are often justified as 'natural'.
In marketing or political rhetoric that frames choices as 'simply human nature' to avoid deeper analysis.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Celebrity Worship
Arguing that celebrity worship is natural and therefore acceptable because it's 'in our nature' to worship them.
Legal Defense
A defendant claims that because 'it's a dog-eat-dog world,' acting out of self-defense is simply following human nature, so they should not be held responsible.
Political Participation
Claiming that since humans are 'political animals by nature,' everyone must participate in politics, ignoring individual choice and context.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Can you identify a situation where an argument relied on 'human nature' without defining what that nature actually is?
How would you respond to someone who excuses harmful behavior by saying 'it's just human nature'?
What are some alternative explanations for behaviors that people often attribute to 'human nature'?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Informal Logical Fallacies A Brief Guide