But That I Would Believe

" Snively: Well, what are you waiting for? We STILL have a job to do! Amy Rose: I know, but I'm finding it hard to factor in the TRUST into this equation. Snively: Would it help if I said I was only doing this to get revenge against A.D.A.M. and didn't give a rat's behind about the rest of you? Amy Rose: ... yeah! THAT you could sell me!"

- Archie Sonic issue #152

Suppose Alice, whether reasonably or unreasonably, distrusts Bob, who in turn realizes that convincing Alice to trust him as a person would be an uphill battle if even possible.

Bob decides instead to give some explanation that he thinks Alice is more likely to believe, about why he would act "as if" he were trustworthy, or at least in a way that wouldn't betray Alice, for whatever scenario such convincing might be needed for.

Despite what one would expect from the concept, these explanations, though they may tend towards selfish motives, are not limited to them. The issue for a lack of trust could be Bob's loyalty to Charlie, for example. Over all, the point is that the explanation would have to be something Bob has reason to expect Alice to be more likely to believe.

Contrast Arbitrary Skepticism. Also, Contrast Sarcastic Confession when they directly tell the truth, knowing the other will not believe them.

Truth in Television, especially in some economics-related debates.

Comic Books

 * The page-quote dialogue refers to Archie Sonic Issue #152, when Snively wanted Amy's help in

Literature

 * In Predatory Wicked Moon by Yevgeny Lukin, a brigand volunteered to join the forces hunting another brigand because that guy stole his mistress. A present official personally acquainted with the lady in question answers that he's vetoed, because she has an attitude of a desert viper and isn't a valid reason for risking one's neck. The brigand is accepted upon confessing that exactly in light of mentioned qualities, he would like to prevent vengeance for ditching her when he ran from the prison.

Live Action TV

 * Constantly spoofed in Get Smart. "Would you believe..."

Music
"I'm gonna keep my sheep suit on, until I'm sure that you've been shown. That I can be trusted walkin' with you alone. Owooooo! Little Red Riding Hood, I'd like to hold you if I could. But you might think I'm a big bad wolf so I won't. Owooooo!"
 * The song "Li'l Red Riding Hood" by Sam The Sham And The Pharaohs.

Web Comics

 * Vexxarr in this strip finds out why a failed world conqueror gets to walk around free.
 * Schlock Mercenary: "That's more like it"!