7 Clues That You Might Be Debating an Idiot

6. Appeals to false authorities

If the person you’re debating likes to cite false authorities, you may be debating an idiot. In truth, appealing to any authority can be seen as a debating sin, but there’s a big difference between citing an economist or philosopher on a relevant subject and quoting Sylvester Stallone about anything.

Actors and celebrities are the favorite authorities for the uneducated. Because they know who these people are, their opinions supposedly matter. Why should we care what Matt Damon’s opinions on guns are? Who made Russel Brand an authority on anything — let alone economics and policy?

Sure, we all get excited when someone with celebrity status shares our views — it makes us like that person more. But it isn’t validation of our beliefs. The opinion of a celebrity has no bearing on anything.