Referring to something lacking or not based on evidence. It describes claims, beliefs, or arguments that are unsupported by factual proof, empirical data, or direct observation. non-evidential reasoning relies on sources other than verifiable information, often appealing to faith, intuition, speculation, or personal experience. It can be used to describe the basis for judgments, assertions, or assumptions that stand apart from the established body of knowledge or scientific consensus.
Non-evidential meaning with examples
- The psychic's predictions were dismissed as non-evidential by the skeptical investigators. They noted that the pronouncements lacked any scientific basis or verifiable data. The lack of concrete evidence meant the claims couldn't be assessed with any degree of certainty or reliability. Without any support it was categorized as pseudoscientific guesswork.
- Belief in the existence of unicorns is a classic example of a non-evidential conviction. There is no physical or historical proof to support the existence of these creatures. The legend surrounding the mythical beast is based on folklore and mythology, not documented facts. Therefore, the belief in the unicorn rests solely on imagination.
- The politician's justification for the new policy relied on non-evidential claims about the future economic impact. These arguments, while sounding confident, were built on assumptions instead of data analysis. Independent economists raised concerns about the lack of statistical backing. Without evidence, it proved hard to determine their accuracy.
- During the trial, the defense attorney attempted to introduce non-evidential arguments based on the defendant's character. He wanted to persuade the jury to give the defendant a lesser sentence. However, the judge quickly rejected these types of assertions because the arguments were not relevant to the specific crime. The arguments were deemed inadmissible.