A defensive tactic where, when faced with overwhelming evidence that meets the stated standard, the arguer changes the criteria for what makes evidence trustworthy itself. The goal (what’s needed) and the proof (what counts) are both shifted simultaneously in a single, fluid maneuver.
Example:
Example:
Moving the Goalproof Example:
“Show me a reputable media report on that.”
You show a report from the Associated Press.
“The AP is part of the corporate media complex. Their ‘facts’ are compromised. You’d need a leak from a brave whistleblower inside.”
They’ve moved the goalproof—redefining both the source and the nature of acceptable evidence in one move.
“Show me a reputable media report on that.”
You show a report from the Associated Press.
“The AP is part of the corporate media complex. Their ‘facts’ are compromised. You’d need a leak from a brave whistleblower inside.”
They’ve moved the goalproof—redefining both the source and the nature of acceptable evidence in one move.
by Dumuabzu February 8, 2026
Get the Moving the Goalproof mug.