Galileo Galilei is often recognized as the father of modern science. He lived from 1564 to 1642, and has made impressive contributions to our understanding of physics, mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy. One of his most famous contributions was his improvements to the telescope, which led him to observe Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, Venus’s phases, and the moon’s surface. This invention fueled his heliocentric beliefs, which made him an enemy of the Catholic Church who upheld geocentricism. Galilei was eventually forced to recant his statements and live under house arrest. Today, Galilei is seen as an inspiration to hold true to one’s beliefs despite doubt and hostility. So it’s ironic that a man renowned for his philosophy and intellectualism has a logical fallacy named after him.

According to History, Galilei’s “penchant for thoughtful and inventive experimentation pushed the scientific method toward its modern form.” However, the Galileo defense, like most logical fallacies, relies on the thoughtlessness of the arguer and listener. It highlights the story of Galilei speaking truth despite persecution, and claims that because an idea is mocked or forbidden, it must be true or at least credible. For instance, a person may make a ridiculous claim, and when it’s shot down, they argue that Galileo was seen as ridiculous and turned out to be right, so there must be truth in their claim. They are essentially using the story of Galileo to attack their opposition and make them question their own skepticism. Keep in mind, the Galileo fallacy doesn’t always include the man himself.