Loaded Presupposition
Category: Loaded Language
What is it?
Loaded presuppositions embed controversial or unproven assumptions into statements in a way that makes them difficult to challenge directly. They frame the discussion by treating contested claims as if they were already established facts.
Examples
'When will you stop ignoring the climate crisis?' (presupposes you are ignoring it)
'The harmful effects of this policy are clear to everyone.' (presupposes the policy is harmful)
How to Avoid This
Separate your assumptions from your statements. Be explicit about claims that require evidence rather than embedding them as presuppositions.
How to Counter This
Identify and challenge the embedded assumption: 'Your question assumes I'm ignoring the issue, which I'm not. Let's discuss the actual evidence.'