Skepticism Toward Experts
Short Definition
Expert claims should be treated critically because uncertainty, incentives, and forecasting limits can reduce reliability.
Expanded Description
This framing does not require rejecting expertise. It argues for evaluating authority claims through track record, incentives, and outcomes rather than credential signals alone.
In Adams' commentary, the core warning is that confidence and status are often mistaken for prediction accuracy.
Persuasion Insight
Appeals to authority are strong rhetorical shortcuts. Skepticism can re-center evaluation on evidence quality and incentives.