The slippery slope is one of the most common logical fallacies because it doesn’t require research or proof. It plays on the audience’s fears that allowing one action will lead to several negative consequences. The slippery slope will supposedly create a domino effect that leads to disaster.
The slippery slope fallacy plays against the idea of compromise. While the audience might be willing to concede one point, this fallacy prevents them from even giving an inch.
You can see the slippery slope fallacy across the United States political landscape. For example, Republicans sometimes use the slippery slope argument against LGBTQ rights, in one case claiming the next wave will involve people marrying their pets.
Alternatives to the Metaphor
This fallacy goes by different names depending on who is describing it. Here are a few similar phrases that discuss the same concept.
- The thin edge of the wedge: This is something seemingly small and unimportant at the time, but becomes a larger problem as it develops.
- Dam burst: One action causes the floodgates to open leading to uncontrollable consequences.
- Camel’s nose: The entire saying goes, once you let a camel’s nose under the tent, the whole thing will eventually end up inside. It is a metaphor for allowing one small thing that causes the situation to get out of control.
- Parade of horribles: This is a list of terrible things that could happen if one action is allowed.
For a fun example of a slippery slope argument, read the children’s book “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”. In this story, a simple action of handing over a cookie results in a mouse wanting milk, a straw, and various other things that cause distress to the giver, making them regret this choice.