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| title | chunk | source | category | tags | date_saved | instance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hand-waving | 3/3 | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand-waving | reference | science, encyclopedia | 2026-05-05T07:23:57.540774+00:00 | kb-cron |
Hand-waving arguments in engineering and other applied sciences often include order-of-magnitude estimates and dimensional analysis, especially in the use of Fermi problems in physics and engineering education. However, competent, well-intentioned researchers and professors also rely on explicitly declared hand-waving when, given a limited time, a large result must be shown and minor technical details cannot be given much attention—e.g., "it can be shown that z is an even number", as an intermediary step in reaching a conclusion.
Another example of hand-waving can be found in the oversimplifications of the geologic representations commonly used in groundwater models created in support of land-development applications, especially those involving metal mining and aggregate extraction.
Back-of-the-envelope calculations are approximate ways to get an answer by over-simplification, and are comparable to hand-waving in this sense.
== In business == Hand-waving has been used to describe work-related situations where productivity is seemingly displayed, but deliverables are not produced, especially in the context of intentional engagement in busy work or pretend-work, vague claims of overwork or complications, impenetrably buzzword-laden rationalizations for delays or otherwise poor performance, and plausible-sounding but weak excuse-making and attention-deflecting tactics. In employment situations, as in political discourse, a hand-waving effort may seek to shift blame to other parties. Another use is in reference to fiscal problems, such as an inability to adequately explain accounting discrepancies or an avoidance of accountability for missing funds.
== See also == List of logical fallacies Proof by example Proof by intimidation
== References ==
== External links == "Proof by Handwaving", article at Everything2 "And then a miracle occurs", cartoon by Sidney Harris, published in American Scientist magazine "Proving almost anything" Archived 2011-07-21 at the Wayback Machine, humor essay by James Lavin, IEEE Potentials February/March 1996, pp. 6–7.