The No True Scotsman Fallacy and Bitcoin: Why Definitions Matter
In Bitcoin debates, you might have come across the “No True Scotsman” fallacy — when someone redefines what “real” Bitcoin is to dismiss criticism or opposing views.
For example, when skeptics point out flaws in Bitcoin, a common response might be: “Well, that’s not real Bitcoin.” Or when a controversial upgrade or fork happens, some say, “No true Bitcoiner would accept that.” This shifts the goalposts and excludes anyone who disagrees by redefining the “true” Bitcoin community or protocol to fit one’s argument.
This fallacy shuts down healthy debate by making the definition of Bitcoin subjective and immune to criticism. It’s important to recognize that Bitcoin is a decentralized, evolving system with diverse participants and opinions—not a monolith defined by any single group’s beliefs.
Understanding this fallacy helps keep discussions about Bitcoin open, honest, and grounded in facts rather than gatekeeping or exclusion. #Bitcoin 




