Self-Sealing Argument
(also known as: vacuous argument [form of])
Description: An argument or position is self-sealing if and only if no evidence can be brought against it no matter what.
Example #1:
Wherever you go, there you are.
Explanation: You can’t argue against that position, and as a result, it is vacuous, or meaningless.
Example #2:
Tina: My life is guided by destiny.
Mary: How do you know that?
Tina: Whatever comes my way is what was meant to be.
Explanation: We have the same vacuity problem here, except this one is less obvious and protected by a philosophical belief system. There is no possible way we can know what "destiny may have in store for us," thus no way to argue against it. As a result, it is meaningless -- it is the equivalent of saying everything happens because it happens.
Exception: No exceptions when being used as an argument.
Tip: Realize that most superstitious beliefs are centered around self-sealing or vacuous arguments, that is why so many people refuse to let go of superstitious beliefs -- because they cannot be proven false.
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