The document discusses different types of fallacies in arguments. It begins by defining what a fallacy is, noting that fallacies are flaws in reasoning and evidence that weaken arguments. It then explains two main categories of fallacies - informal fallacies, which occur due to mistakes in assumptions or evidence, and formal fallacies, which are flaws in logical structure. The document focuses on explaining different types of ad hominem fallacies, where an argument attacks the person making the argument rather than addressing the actual argument. It provides examples of different forms of ad hominem fallacies and discusses how to identify them.
With a view to employing logic appropriately we should be aware of logical fallacies we might commit. Some are common and unintentional , others are deliberate .Some are tricks to win an argument, others are simply immoral and should be avoided.
This document discusses logical fallacies and provides examples of common fallacies. It defines 14 different types of fallacies including hasty generalization, begging the question, slippery slope, appeal to authority, and straw man. For each fallacy it provides a definition and example to illustrate how the fallacy works. It also includes examples of arguments and asks the reader to identify which fallacy is being committed.
This document discusses logical fallacies and how to identify them. It defines and provides examples of common fallacies such as hasty generalization, missing the point, post hoc, slippery slope, weak analogy, appeal to authority, ad populum, ad hominem, appeal to pity, appeal to ignorance, straw man, red herring, false dichotomy, begging the question, and equivocation. It encourages readers to ask questions to determine if an argument relies on one of these fallacious techniques rather than sound logic.
The document provides an introduction to common logical fallacies. It defines fallacies as arguments that seem correct but are not valid upon examination. It focuses on three main categories of fallacies: fallacies of relevance, ambiguity, and presumption. Under fallacies of relevance, it discusses the argument from ignorance, appeal to inappropriate authority, appeal to popular opinion, complex question, begging the question, false dilemma, and ad hominem. It also covers fallacies of ambiguity like equivocation and accent. The document aims to help readers identify and avoid using fallacious reasoning.
There are several types of fallacies that can undermine arguments. Fallacies of relevance include appealing to emotion rather than facts, distracting from the issue by introducing irrelevant topics (red herring), misrepresenting the opponent's position (straw man), and making personal attacks. Fallacies of defective induction weaken arguments through lack of evidence, inappropriate authority, false connections, and hasty generalizations. Fallacies of presumption assume the conclusion, while fallacies of ambiguity confuse meanings or take things out of context. Identifying fallacies helps evaluate reasoning.
The document provides information about different types of logical fallacies, including fallacies of relevance and fallacies of insufficient evidence. It defines what a fallacy is, and categorizes them into two types - fallacies of relevance and fallacies of insufficient evidence. For fallacies of relevance, it gives examples and explanations of different types like personal attack, attacking the motive, look who's talking, two wrongs make a right, scare tactics, appeal to emotion, bandwagon argument, straw man, red herring, equivocation, and begging the question. For fallacies of insufficient evidence, it discusses false authority, appeal to ignorance, false dilemma, loaded question, false cause, hasty generalization, slippery slope, weak analogy
The document discusses various logical fallacies and their definitions. It begins by explaining the origins of the word "fallacy" and provides some background. It then proceeds to define and give examples of several common fallacies, including ad hominem, post hoc ergo propter hoc, slippery slope, hasty generalization, and argumentum ad populum. It concludes with reviewing the definitions of some fallacies and introducing new ones such as begging the question and red herring.
With a view to employing logic appropriately we should be aware of logical fallacies we might commit. Some are common and unintentional , others are deliberate .Some are tricks to win an argument, others are simply immoral and should be avoided.
This document discusses logical fallacies and provides examples of common fallacies. It defines 14 different types of fallacies including hasty generalization, begging the question, slippery slope, appeal to authority, and straw man. For each fallacy it provides a definition and example to illustrate how the fallacy works. It also includes examples of arguments and asks the reader to identify which fallacy is being committed.
This document discusses logical fallacies and how to identify them. It defines and provides examples of common fallacies such as hasty generalization, missing the point, post hoc, slippery slope, weak analogy, appeal to authority, ad populum, ad hominem, appeal to pity, appeal to ignorance, straw man, red herring, false dichotomy, begging the question, and equivocation. It encourages readers to ask questions to determine if an argument relies on one of these fallacious techniques rather than sound logic.
The document provides an introduction to common logical fallacies. It defines fallacies as arguments that seem correct but are not valid upon examination. It focuses on three main categories of fallacies: fallacies of relevance, ambiguity, and presumption. Under fallacies of relevance, it discusses the argument from ignorance, appeal to inappropriate authority, appeal to popular opinion, complex question, begging the question, false dilemma, and ad hominem. It also covers fallacies of ambiguity like equivocation and accent. The document aims to help readers identify and avoid using fallacious reasoning.
There are several types of fallacies that can undermine arguments. Fallacies of relevance include appealing to emotion rather than facts, distracting from the issue by introducing irrelevant topics (red herring), misrepresenting the opponent's position (straw man), and making personal attacks. Fallacies of defective induction weaken arguments through lack of evidence, inappropriate authority, false connections, and hasty generalizations. Fallacies of presumption assume the conclusion, while fallacies of ambiguity confuse meanings or take things out of context. Identifying fallacies helps evaluate reasoning.
The document provides information about different types of logical fallacies, including fallacies of relevance and fallacies of insufficient evidence. It defines what a fallacy is, and categorizes them into two types - fallacies of relevance and fallacies of insufficient evidence. For fallacies of relevance, it gives examples and explanations of different types like personal attack, attacking the motive, look who's talking, two wrongs make a right, scare tactics, appeal to emotion, bandwagon argument, straw man, red herring, equivocation, and begging the question. For fallacies of insufficient evidence, it discusses false authority, appeal to ignorance, false dilemma, loaded question, false cause, hasty generalization, slippery slope, weak analogy
The document discusses various logical fallacies and their definitions. It begins by explaining the origins of the word "fallacy" and provides some background. It then proceeds to define and give examples of several common fallacies, including ad hominem, post hoc ergo propter hoc, slippery slope, hasty generalization, and argumentum ad populum. It concludes with reviewing the definitions of some fallacies and introducing new ones such as begging the question and red herring.
The document discusses the logical fallacy known as ad hominem. It defines ad hominem as attacking an argument by attacking the person making it rather than addressing the substance of the argument. The document provides several examples of ad hominem, such as dismissing a doctor's advice because of their weight or rejecting a movie review because of the reviewer's religion. It emphasizes that arguments should be evaluated based on evidence and reasoning rather than personal characteristics. The document is intended to help readers identify and avoid ad hominem fallacies.
An argument is a logical structure with premises that lead to a conclusion. Arguments can be evaluated based on validity, truth, and soundness. Validity means the conclusion follows logically from the premises. An argument is sound if it is valid and all premises are true. Inductive and deductive reasoning differ in strengths and weaknesses. Inductive relies on experience while deductive accepts fixed definitions, but may lead to apparently necessary but false conclusions. Fallacies and counterarguments should be considered when critically evaluating arguments.
Analysis - Inductive and Deductive ArgumentsAlwyn Lau
The document discusses deductive and inductive arguments. It defines deductive arguments as trying to prove conclusions with inescapable logic, while inductive arguments claim conclusions are probable or likely given the premises. Common patterns of deductive reasoning include hypothetical syllogisms, categorical syllogisms, elimination arguments, and arguments based on definitions. Common patterns of inductive reasoning include generalization, prediction, appeals to authority, causal reasoning, statistics, and analogy.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies. It discusses 12 different types of fallacies: overgeneralization, false cause, weak analogy, circular reasoning, false dilemma, appeal to authority, appeal to pity, begging the question, appeal to ignorance, ad hominem, non sequitur, and defines each as using defective or invalid reasoning in arguments. Examples are provided for most of the fallacies to illustrate how each invalid argument form manifests.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies used to invalidate arguments. It discusses fallacies such as ad hominem where one attacks the person instead of the issue, begging the question by assuming the conclusion as fact, false cause where an unrelated cause is cited to explain an event, and slippery slope implying one small step leads to catastrophe. Other fallacies presented include false analogy, oversimplification, rationalization, red herring, two wrongs make a right, hasty generalization, and straw man.
This document provides guidance on writing an effective argumentative essay in 3 paragraphs or less. It begins by explaining the purpose is to convince the reader of a particular point of view using facts and examples. Next, it covers the key components of an introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction should grab attention with a strong opening and state the opinion. The body should make arguments supported by evidence, anticipate counterarguments, and discuss opposing views. The conclusion restates the main points and opinion, and calls the reader to action.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies. It discusses 10 different fallacies - hasty generalization, post hoc, slippery slope, appeal to authority, straw man, red herring, begging the question, and others. For each fallacy, it provides a definition and an example to illustrate how the fallacious reasoning works. The document aims to help readers identify and understand flawed arguments by learning to recognize these common logical fallacies.
This document discusses various philosophical theories of truth and methods for determining truth. It defines truth as a core concept in inquiry and knowledge. The document outlines correspondence theory, which holds that something is true if it corresponds to reality, and coherence theory, which says something is true if it makes sense within a given context. It also discusses relativism, constructivism, and consensus theory. The document provides examples and analyzes factors like biases, facts vs opinions, and logical fallacies that can influence determining truth. Activities are included to help students apply these concepts.
This document provides an overview of an argumentative essay, including:
- The key differences between an argumentative essay and a persuasive essay, noting an argumentative essay requires presenting both sides of an issue.
- An argumentative essay must support a claim with clear reasons and evidence while discussing both the supporting argument and counterargument.
- It provides an example of a potential claim or issue that could be the basis of an argumentative paper, and discusses the components of presenting the argument and counterargument.
The document provides an overview of argumentation and the key components of constructing a strong argument. It discusses the importance of logos (facts and evidence), ethos (credibility), and pathos (appeals to emotion). Additionally, it outlines common types of reasoning, things to consider like acknowledging other viewpoints, and logical fallacies to avoid. The document emphasizes researching all sides of an issue thoroughly and being able to refute opposing arguments.
This document discusses various theories of truth and their application to media practice. It outlines four main theories of truth: coherence theory, pragmatist theory, correspondence theory, and discusses how each views what constitutes truth. It then examines how these different theories of truth can influence media practice. Specifically, it notes that media aims to communicate truth to its audiences but different views of truth - such as subjective vs. objective - lead to different approaches in newsgathering and reporting.
The document discusses the theory of deduction and categorical propositions. It explains that Aristotelian logic focuses on arguments with categorical propositions that relate classes or categories to each other. There are four standard forms of categorical propositions - universal affirmative (A), universal negative (E), particular affirmative (I), and particular negative (O). Each relates the subject and predicate classes in a different way. For example, an A proposition states that all members of the subject class are members of the predicate class, while an O proposition states that at least one member of the subject class is not a member of the predicate class.
Persuasive writing aims to convince readers to adopt a certain viewpoint using sound reasoning and evidence. It presents a claim supported by multiple reasons backed by facts, expert opinions, statistics, or personal observations. Strong arguments also address potential counterarguments in a fair manner before rebutting them to demonstrate that the writer has considered alternative perspectives. Effective persuasive essays follow a standard format that introduces the claim, discusses each supporting reason and evidence, addresses counterarguments, and concludes by restating the central claim.
This document defines argument and outlines different models of argument. It discusses argument as a fight, a two-sided debate, and a collaborative exploration of multiple viewpoints. The document argues that the collaborative model is best for academic writing. It also explains that argument has two components - truth seeking and persuasion - which work together when approached as a process aimed at a persuasive conclusion. The document outlines five levels of argument development and provides a framework for constructing a classical argument.
This document provides an introduction to literary analysis, outlining key elements to examine when analyzing literature. It discusses themes, setting, plot, point of view, characters, symbolism, and the difference between a thesis and a theme. It provides guidance on identifying the major theme, examining characters, and analyzing elements like allegory, symbolism, and plot structure. The overall document serves as a guide for students to systematically analyze and understand the essential components of literary works.
Nancy Mairs presents a logical argument for choosing to identify as a "cripple" rather than using alternative terms like "disabled." She acknowledges the complexity of her motives while positioning herself as someone willing to face hard truths head-on. Mairs demonstrates her authority on the topic through honest self-reflection and sharing personal experiences. She uses carefully selected emotive language to convey the feelings underlying her experiences in order to persuade the audience.
The document discusses various types of informal fallacies, including fallacies of relevance such as ignoratio elenchi (missing the point), ad hominem (against the person), and fallacies that manipulate the audience such as ad populum (appeal to popularity), ad misericordiam (appeal to pity), and ad baculum (appeal to force). Sample arguments are provided for each fallacy to illustrate where the logical error occurs. Key details are emphasized on distinguishing different types of fallacies and avoiding fallacious reasoning.
This document provides definitions and examples of various logical fallacies. It begins by explaining that fallacies are flawed or dishonest arguments that can undermine the credibility of the writer. It emphasizes the importance of learning to identify fallacies in one's own arguments and those of others. The document then proceeds to define and provide examples of over 20 specific logical fallacies, including genetic fallacy, argumentum ad hominem, appeal to popularity, appeal to tradition, appeal to authority, argument from consequences, and others. It concludes by noting there are also component fallacies related to inductive and deductive reasoning.
The document discusses the logical fallacy known as ad hominem. It defines ad hominem as attacking an argument by attacking the person making it rather than addressing the substance of the argument. The document provides several examples of ad hominem, such as dismissing a doctor's advice because of their weight or rejecting a movie review because of the reviewer's religion. It emphasizes that arguments should be evaluated based on evidence and reasoning rather than personal characteristics. The document is intended to help readers identify and avoid ad hominem fallacies.
An argument is a logical structure with premises that lead to a conclusion. Arguments can be evaluated based on validity, truth, and soundness. Validity means the conclusion follows logically from the premises. An argument is sound if it is valid and all premises are true. Inductive and deductive reasoning differ in strengths and weaknesses. Inductive relies on experience while deductive accepts fixed definitions, but may lead to apparently necessary but false conclusions. Fallacies and counterarguments should be considered when critically evaluating arguments.
Analysis - Inductive and Deductive ArgumentsAlwyn Lau
The document discusses deductive and inductive arguments. It defines deductive arguments as trying to prove conclusions with inescapable logic, while inductive arguments claim conclusions are probable or likely given the premises. Common patterns of deductive reasoning include hypothetical syllogisms, categorical syllogisms, elimination arguments, and arguments based on definitions. Common patterns of inductive reasoning include generalization, prediction, appeals to authority, causal reasoning, statistics, and analogy.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies. It discusses 12 different types of fallacies: overgeneralization, false cause, weak analogy, circular reasoning, false dilemma, appeal to authority, appeal to pity, begging the question, appeal to ignorance, ad hominem, non sequitur, and defines each as using defective or invalid reasoning in arguments. Examples are provided for most of the fallacies to illustrate how each invalid argument form manifests.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies used to invalidate arguments. It discusses fallacies such as ad hominem where one attacks the person instead of the issue, begging the question by assuming the conclusion as fact, false cause where an unrelated cause is cited to explain an event, and slippery slope implying one small step leads to catastrophe. Other fallacies presented include false analogy, oversimplification, rationalization, red herring, two wrongs make a right, hasty generalization, and straw man.
This document provides guidance on writing an effective argumentative essay in 3 paragraphs or less. It begins by explaining the purpose is to convince the reader of a particular point of view using facts and examples. Next, it covers the key components of an introduction, body and conclusion. The introduction should grab attention with a strong opening and state the opinion. The body should make arguments supported by evidence, anticipate counterarguments, and discuss opposing views. The conclusion restates the main points and opinion, and calls the reader to action.
This document defines and provides examples of common logical fallacies. It discusses 10 different fallacies - hasty generalization, post hoc, slippery slope, appeal to authority, straw man, red herring, begging the question, and others. For each fallacy, it provides a definition and an example to illustrate how the fallacious reasoning works. The document aims to help readers identify and understand flawed arguments by learning to recognize these common logical fallacies.
This document discusses various philosophical theories of truth and methods for determining truth. It defines truth as a core concept in inquiry and knowledge. The document outlines correspondence theory, which holds that something is true if it corresponds to reality, and coherence theory, which says something is true if it makes sense within a given context. It also discusses relativism, constructivism, and consensus theory. The document provides examples and analyzes factors like biases, facts vs opinions, and logical fallacies that can influence determining truth. Activities are included to help students apply these concepts.
This document provides an overview of an argumentative essay, including:
- The key differences between an argumentative essay and a persuasive essay, noting an argumentative essay requires presenting both sides of an issue.
- An argumentative essay must support a claim with clear reasons and evidence while discussing both the supporting argument and counterargument.
- It provides an example of a potential claim or issue that could be the basis of an argumentative paper, and discusses the components of presenting the argument and counterargument.
The document provides an overview of argumentation and the key components of constructing a strong argument. It discusses the importance of logos (facts and evidence), ethos (credibility), and pathos (appeals to emotion). Additionally, it outlines common types of reasoning, things to consider like acknowledging other viewpoints, and logical fallacies to avoid. The document emphasizes researching all sides of an issue thoroughly and being able to refute opposing arguments.
This document discusses various theories of truth and their application to media practice. It outlines four main theories of truth: coherence theory, pragmatist theory, correspondence theory, and discusses how each views what constitutes truth. It then examines how these different theories of truth can influence media practice. Specifically, it notes that media aims to communicate truth to its audiences but different views of truth - such as subjective vs. objective - lead to different approaches in newsgathering and reporting.
The document discusses the theory of deduction and categorical propositions. It explains that Aristotelian logic focuses on arguments with categorical propositions that relate classes or categories to each other. There are four standard forms of categorical propositions - universal affirmative (A), universal negative (E), particular affirmative (I), and particular negative (O). Each relates the subject and predicate classes in a different way. For example, an A proposition states that all members of the subject class are members of the predicate class, while an O proposition states that at least one member of the subject class is not a member of the predicate class.
Persuasive writing aims to convince readers to adopt a certain viewpoint using sound reasoning and evidence. It presents a claim supported by multiple reasons backed by facts, expert opinions, statistics, or personal observations. Strong arguments also address potential counterarguments in a fair manner before rebutting them to demonstrate that the writer has considered alternative perspectives. Effective persuasive essays follow a standard format that introduces the claim, discusses each supporting reason and evidence, addresses counterarguments, and concludes by restating the central claim.
This document defines argument and outlines different models of argument. It discusses argument as a fight, a two-sided debate, and a collaborative exploration of multiple viewpoints. The document argues that the collaborative model is best for academic writing. It also explains that argument has two components - truth seeking and persuasion - which work together when approached as a process aimed at a persuasive conclusion. The document outlines five levels of argument development and provides a framework for constructing a classical argument.
This document provides an introduction to literary analysis, outlining key elements to examine when analyzing literature. It discusses themes, setting, plot, point of view, characters, symbolism, and the difference between a thesis and a theme. It provides guidance on identifying the major theme, examining characters, and analyzing elements like allegory, symbolism, and plot structure. The overall document serves as a guide for students to systematically analyze and understand the essential components of literary works.
Nancy Mairs presents a logical argument for choosing to identify as a "cripple" rather than using alternative terms like "disabled." She acknowledges the complexity of her motives while positioning herself as someone willing to face hard truths head-on. Mairs demonstrates her authority on the topic through honest self-reflection and sharing personal experiences. She uses carefully selected emotive language to convey the feelings underlying her experiences in order to persuade the audience.
The document discusses various types of informal fallacies, including fallacies of relevance such as ignoratio elenchi (missing the point), ad hominem (against the person), and fallacies that manipulate the audience such as ad populum (appeal to popularity), ad misericordiam (appeal to pity), and ad baculum (appeal to force). Sample arguments are provided for each fallacy to illustrate where the logical error occurs. Key details are emphasized on distinguishing different types of fallacies and avoiding fallacious reasoning.
This document provides definitions and examples of various logical fallacies. It begins by explaining that fallacies are flawed or dishonest arguments that can undermine the credibility of the writer. It emphasizes the importance of learning to identify fallacies in one's own arguments and those of others. The document then proceeds to define and provide examples of over 20 specific logical fallacies, including genetic fallacy, argumentum ad hominem, appeal to popularity, appeal to tradition, appeal to authority, argument from consequences, and others. It concludes by noting there are also component fallacies related to inductive and deductive reasoning.
The document provides definitions and examples of various logical fallacies including:
- Hasty generalization - Making assumptions based on inadequate samples
- Post hoc - Assuming A causes B because A occurred before B
- Ad hominem - Attacking the person making an argument rather than the argument itself
- Appeal to authority - Citing an irrelevant authority to support an argument
- Begging the question - Assuming the conclusion is true without evidence
- False analogy - Comparing two things that are not truly analogous
- Red herring - Intentionally diverting attention from the original issue
- Weak analogy - Comparing two things that are not analogous in relevant respects
Evaluate Your Argument on the IssueIn this chapter you will lear.docxgitagrimston
Evaluate Your Argument on the Issue
In this chapter you will learn how to identify and overcome errors in reasoning. This is a special step that applies only to issues because resolving issues involves finding the most reasonable belief.
Two broad kinds of errors are examined—errors affecting the truth of your ideas and errors affecting the quality of your reasoning. A step-by-step approach to evaluate arguments is also included.
Because your main objective in addressing an issue is not to find the most effective action but to determine the most reasonable belief, your main task in refining an issue is to evaluate your argument to be sure that it is free of error. Two broad kinds of error must be considered. The first affects the truth of the argument’s premises or assertions. The second affects the argument’s validity—that is, the legitimacy of the reasoning by which the conclusion was reached. A sound argument is both true and valid.
Errors Affecting Truth
Errors affecting truth are found by testing the accuracy of the premises and the conclusion as individual statements. The first and most common error in this category is simple factual inaccuracy. If we have investigated the issue properly and have taken care to verify our evidence whenever possible, such errors should not be present. We will therefore limit our consideration to the more subtle and common errors:
· Either/or thinking
· Avoiding the issue
· Overgeneralizing
· Oversimplifying
· Double standard
· Shifting the burden of proof
· Irrational appeal
Either/Or Thinking
This error consists of believing that only two choices are possible in situations in which there are actually more than two choices. A common example of either/or thinking occurs in the creationism-versus-evolution debate. Both sides are often guilty of the error. “The biblical story of creation and scientific evolution cannot both be right,” they say. “It must be either one or the other.” They are mistaken. There is a third possibility: that there is a God who created everything but did so through evolution. Whether this position is the best one may, of course, be disputed. But it is an error to ignore its existence.
Either/or thinking undoubtedly occurs because, in controversy, the spotlight is usually on the most obvious positions, those most clearly in conflict. Any other position, especially a subtle one, is ignored. Such thinking is best overcome by conscientiously searching out all possible views before choosing one. If you find either/or thinking in your position on an issue, ask yourself, “Why must it be one view or the other? Why not both or neither?”
Avoiding the Issue
The attorney was just beginning to try the case in court when her associate learned that their key witness had changed his mind about testifying. The associate handed the attorney this note: “Have no case. Abuse the other side.” That is the form avoiding the issue often takes: deliberately attacking the person with the opposing view i ...
The document discusses different types of thinking such as convergent thinking, divergent thinking, and clear thinking. It also discusses fallacies in common thinking such as ad hominem arguments, false analogies, and overgeneralizing. Additionally, it provides tips for developing clear thinking through analytical, creative, and practical thinking.
Advertising can shape attitudes and behaviors by targeting specific demographics. For example, advertisers successfully targeted female smokers starting in the early 20th century. As a result, the percentage of female smokers increased and nearly caught up to male smokers by 2004. The document discusses the nature and origins of attitudes, including their cognitive, affective, and behavioral components. Attitudes can form from genetics, direct experiences, classical and operant conditioning, and observations of one's own behavior. The document also examines how attitudes change through persuasion, including the central and peripheral routes to persuasion and the role of emotion.
This document summarizes 12 common logical fallacies: hasty generalization, missing the point, post hoc, slippery slope, weak analogy, appeal to authority, appeal to pity, appeal to ignorance, straw man, red herring, and false dichotomy. For each fallacy, it provides a definition and example to illustrate how the fallacious reasoning works. The document aims to help readers identify and avoid using flawed logic in arguments.
1. The document discusses logical fallacies and different types of relevance fallacies. It defines a fallacy as an error in reasoning and explains that relevance fallacies involve premises that are logically irrelevant to the conclusion.
2. The document outlines several types of relevance fallacies, including red herrings, false dilemmas, circular reasoning, appeals to emotion like fear and pity, irrelevant conclusions, wishful thinking, and denial.
3. Examples are provided for each type of fallacy to illustrate how the reasoning is flawed. Readers are encouraged to learn about logical fallacies to strengthen their own arguments and identify poor reasoning in the arguments of others.
Why are we doing this again1) Generally speaking,.docxphilipnelson29183
This document discusses reasoning and fallacies. It begins by stating that the purpose of the class is to make students better at reasoning by learning to recognize fallacies. It then provides examples of different types of fallacies, such as hasty generalization, generalization from exceptional cases, slippery slopes, false causes, appeals to authority and popularity, and irrelevant conclusions. It also discusses factors that can influence credibility, such as expertise, bias, prior knowledge, plausibility, interested vs disinterested parties, and media sources. Throughout, it gives examples to illustrate each fallacy and concept.
Mission CriticalHumanities 1BFallacies and Non-RaIlonaThornburg83
This document discusses various types of fallacious arguments and non-rational persuasion techniques. It begins by defining fallacious appeals and dividing them into misdirected appeals and emotional appeals. It then provides examples and detailed explanations of different types of misdirected appeals, including appeals to authority, common belief, common practice, and indirect consequences. It also discusses several common emotional appeals such as appeals to fear, loyalty, pity, prejudice, spite, and vanity. The document aims to help readers identify and evaluate fallacious arguments.
In this assignment, you will compose three original examples of info.docxmigdalialyle
In this assignment, you will compose three original examples of informal fallacy arguments. This assignment allows you to examine common fallacies in everyday reasoning.
Using the types of arguments listed in the textbook chapter “Flimsy Structures,” respond to the following:
Draft two original fallacies. Do not identify the fallacies, allow your peers to determine what fallacy your example represents.
Next, using the Internet, respond to the following:
Research a third informal fallacy not already covered in the text.
Identify and define the fallacy. For example, appeal to tradition, false dichotomy, etc.
Provide a citation for your source.
Construct an original fallacy argument of that type.
Support your statements with examples and scholarly references.
Write your initial response in 1–2 paragraphs. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.
By
Sunday, October 7, 2012
, post your response to the appropriate
Discussion Area
. Through
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
, review and comment on at least two peers’ responses. Identify their fallacies and suggest ways in which they can refine their arguments.
Grading Criteria and Rubric
Assignment 2 Grading Criteria
Maximum Points
Initial Discussion Response
16
Discussion Participation
16
Writing Craftsmanship and Ethical Scholarship
8
Total:
40
CHAPTER 12
Flimsy Structures
This chapter could have been titled “
Un
warranted Inferences.” The following are certain infamous reasons given to support arguments—infamous because they mimic real support. There are two basic replies to these inferences: “So what?” or “What else?”
Abusing arguments may be among the world’s older professions. Proper names for many types of abuse are in Latin. I’ll deal only with the seven deadliest: inconsistency,
ad hominem
attacks, appeal to pity, begging the questions,
post hoc ergo propter hoc
, appeal (only) to the many, and straw man.
INCONSISTENCY
Two main ways of being inconsistent come to mind:
1.
Offering reasons that are contradictory
. For example, arguing that most people who strive for success do so out of hunger for love and admiration they didn’t get when growing up; and in the same book arguing that most people strive for success because they can afford to take the risk of failure, having been given a lot of encouragement and attention as children. Since encouragement and attention are tantamount to love and admiration, this argument is foundering on inconsistency unless the arguer makes a careful distinction between the pairs of terms
love-admiration
and
encouragement-attention
to explain this disparity.
2.
Offering reasons that contradict the conclusion
. For example, we should conserve on fuel because many of the elderly poor are dying from lack of heat in the winter. Given that reason, the conclusion would appear to be the opposite: that we should expend more fuel, at least on the elderly poor (unless some fiend is advocating killing off the elderly poor).
Enjoy Being on the Lookout
You can .
The slides aim to train members of Ateneo Debate Union to detect fallacies in argumentation. It is the hope that this would enhance their case construction skills. The principles used borrows heavily from logic.
This document defines and provides examples of 20 common logical fallacies: strawman, false cause, appeal to emotion, the fallacy fallacy, slippery slope, ad hominem, tu quoque, personal incredulity, special pleading, loaded question, burden of proof, ambiguity, the gambler's fallacy, bandwagon, appeal to authority, composition/division, no true Scotsman, genetic, black-or-white, and begging the question. For each fallacy, it explains what it is and provides an example to illustrate how the fallacious reasoning works.
We attempt or avoid difficult conversations every day-whether dealing with an underperforming employee, disagreeing with a spouse, or negotiating with a client. From the Harvard Negotiation Project, the organization that brought you Getting to Yes, Difficult Conversations provides a step-by-step approach to having those tough conversations with less stress and more success. you’ll learn how to:
· Decipher the underlying structure of every difficult conversation
· Start a conversation without defensiveness
· Listen for the meaning of what is not said
· Stay balanced in the face of attacks and accusations
· Move from emotion to productive problem solving
The document discusses various types of logical fallacies that can weaken arguments. It begins by defining a fallacy as a defect that weakens an argument. It then provides tips to help avoid common fallacies like hasty generalization, missing the point, post hoc reasoning, slippery slope, weak analogy, appeal to authority, ad populum, ad hominem, tu quoque, appeal to pity, appeal to ignorance, straw man, red herring, false dichotomy, begging the question, and equivocation. The overall goal is to help readers critically examine their own arguments and strengthen them by identifying and avoiding logical fallacies.
Week 4 Fallacies, Biases, and RhetoricJust as it is important t.docxcockekeshia
Week 4: Fallacies, Biases, and Rhetoric
Just as it is important to find truth it is equally important to learn to avoid error. It is analogous to playing defense. The main way that we play defense in logic is by guarding against fallacies and biases. Fallacies are common forms of inference that are not good; they do not adequately support their conclusions. The best way to learn to avoid them is to learn to identify them so that you will see when they are occurring.
Since there are literally hundreds of fallacies, we will only have time to discuss a small few. However, we will focus on some of the most common, and readers can go on to learn more, both from our book as well as other online resources. Here is a brief summary of a few of the most important and most common (these are explained in much greater detail in the book, and there are many more fallacies addressed in the book, so make sure to reach Chapter 7 before doing the activities of the week).
This week's guidance will cover the following topics:
1. Begging the Question
2. The Straw Man Fallacy
3. The Ad Hominem Fallacy
4. The Appeal to Popular Opinion
5. The Appeal to Emotion
6. Other Fallacies
7. Cognitive Biases
8. Argumentative Devices
9. Things to Do This Week
Begging the Question
Possibly the most commonly committed fallacy is Begging the Question (by assuming a main point at issue). Here is a nice explanation:
Circular reasoning is an extreme version of begging the question in which a premise is identical to the conclusion.
Here are some examples of each:
1. Don’t listen to that candidate; he’s untrustworthy.
2. You shouldn’t bet on that horse; it’s going to lose.
3. Don’t buy a Mac since PCs are better.
4. Marijuana should not be legalized because that would be disastrous.
5. You should join my religion because it’s the true one.
6. That food is bad for you because it is unhealthy.How to Avoid Begging the Question
In order to avoid this fallacy it is necessary to use premises that do not assume the point at issue, but rather that are based in principles and observations upon which both parties could in principle agree.
Can you think of ways to fix each of the above arguments? What premises could you add to make the arguments, not only substantive, but also to support their conclusions in ways that are likely to be acceptable to someone who doesn’t already agree?An Example of Avoiding Begging the Question by Creating a Supporting Argument
Suppose you want to say why abortion is wrong, and you use the premise that abortion kills a human being. This argument simply assumes that a human fetus is a human being, which is a major point at issue. One way that you might seek to get out of this problem is to come up with a supporting argument for that premise. That is, you might construct a piece of reasoning intending to demonstrate to the other parties why a fetus should count as a human being.
To do this without begging the question will be difficult, but it typically will involve.
Week 4 Fallacies, Biases, and RhetoricJust as it is important to .docxcockekeshia
Week 4: Fallacies, Biases, and Rhetoric
Just as it is important to find truth it is equally important to learn to avoid error. It is analogous to playing defense. The main way that we play defense in logic is by guarding against fallacies and biases. Fallacies are common forms of inference that are not good; they do not adequately support their conclusions. The best way to learn to avoid them is to learn to identify them so that you will see when they are occurring.
Since there are literally hundreds of fallacies, we will only have time to discuss a small few. However, we will focus on some of the most common, and readers can go on to learn more, both from our book as well as other online resources. Here is a brief summary of a few of the most important and most common (these are explained in much greater detail in the book, and there are many more fallacies addressed in the book, so make sure to reach Chapter 7 before doing the activities of the week).
This week's guidance will cover the following topics:
1. Begging the Question
2. The Straw Man Fallacy
3. The Ad Hominem Fallacy
4. The Appeal to Popular Opinion
5. The Appeal to Emotion
6. Other Fallacies
7. Cognitive Biases
8. Argumentative Devices
9. Things to Do This Week
Begging the Question
Possibly the most commonly committed fallacy is Begging the Question (by assuming a main point at issue). Here is a nice explanation:
Circular reasoning is an extreme version of begging the question in which a premise is identical to the conclusion.
Here are some examples of each:
1. Don’t listen to that candidate; he’s untrustworthy.
2. You shouldn’t bet on that horse; it’s going to lose.
3. Don’t buy a Mac since PCs are better.
4. Marijuana should not be legalized because that would be disastrous.
5. You should join my religion because it’s the true one.
6. That food is bad for you because it is unhealthy.How to Avoid Begging the Question
In order to avoid this fallacy it is necessary to use premises that do not assume the point at issue, but rather that are based in principles and observations upon which both parties could in principle agree.
Can you think of ways to fix each of the above arguments? What premises could you add to make the arguments, not only substantive, but also to support their conclusions in ways that are likely to be acceptable to someone who doesn’t already agree?An Example of Avoiding Begging the Question by Creating a Supporting Argument
Suppose you want to say why abortion is wrong, and you use the premise that abortion kills a human being. This argument simply assumes that a human fetus is a human being, which is a major point at issue. One way that you might seek to get out of this problem is to come up with a supporting argument for that premise. That is, you might construct a piece of reasoning intending to demonstrate to the other parties why a fetus should count as a human being.
To do this without begging the question will be difficult, but it typically will involve.
The document discusses various types of logical fallacies, which are flaws in reasoning that can undermine arguments. It defines fallacies as violations of logical laws or erroneous forms of reasoning. The document then explains 12 common informal fallacies, including appeals to emotion, authority, popularity and ignorance. It provides examples to illustrate each fallacy. The document concludes by presenting statements containing potential fallacies and asking the reader to identify them, along with answering any additional questions.
This document provides an overview of the straw man fallacy through examples and explanations. It begins by defining a straw man fallacy as misrepresenting an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack. It then provides several examples to illustrate how an argument commits this fallacy by replacing the actual position with a distorted version to argue against. The document aims to help readers identify straw man arguments and understand this common logical fallacy.
Similar to Ad hominem and Appeal to authority Fallacies (20)
This presentation was provided by Steph Pollock of The American Psychological Association’s Journals Program, and Damita Snow, of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), for the initial session of NISO's 2024 Training Series "DEIA in the Scholarly Landscape." Session One: 'Setting Expectations: a DEIA Primer,' was held June 6, 2024.
How to Manage Your Lost Opportunities in Odoo 17 CRMCeline George
Odoo 17 CRM allows us to track why we lose sales opportunities with "Lost Reasons." This helps analyze our sales process and identify areas for improvement. Here's how to configure lost reasons in Odoo 17 CRM
This slide is special for master students (MIBS & MIFB) in UUM. Also useful for readers who are interested in the topic of contemporary Islamic banking.
This presentation includes basic of PCOS their pathology and treatment and also Ayurveda correlation of PCOS and Ayurvedic line of treatment mentioned in classics.
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
it describes the bony anatomy including the femoral head , acetabulum, labrum . also discusses the capsule , ligaments . muscle that act on the hip joint and the range of motion are outlined. factors affecting hip joint stability and weight transmission through the joint are summarized.
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty, In...Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty,
International FDP on Fundamentals of Research in Social Sciences
at Integral University, Lucknow, 06.06.2024
By Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, and GDPR: Best Practices for Implementation and...PECB
Denis is a dynamic and results-driven Chief Information Officer (CIO) with a distinguished career spanning information systems analysis and technical project management. With a proven track record of spearheading the design and delivery of cutting-edge Information Management solutions, he has consistently elevated business operations, streamlined reporting functions, and maximized process efficiency.
Certified as an ISO/IEC 27001: Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Lead Implementer, Data Protection Officer, and Cyber Risks Analyst, Denis brings a heightened focus on data security, privacy, and cyber resilience to every endeavor.
His expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of reporting, database, and web development applications, underpinned by an exceptional grasp of data storage and virtualization technologies. His proficiency in application testing, database administration, and data cleansing ensures seamless execution of complex projects.
What sets Denis apart is his comprehensive understanding of Business and Systems Analysis technologies, honed through involvement in all phases of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). From meticulous requirements gathering to precise analysis, innovative design, rigorous development, thorough testing, and successful implementation, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
Throughout his career, he has taken on multifaceted roles, from leading technical project management teams to owning solutions that drive operational excellence. His conscientious and proactive approach is unwavering, whether he is working independently or collaboratively within a team. His ability to connect with colleagues on a personal level underscores his commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive workplace environment.
Date: May 29, 2024
Tags: Information Security, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Artificial Intelligence, GDPR
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3. What is Fallacy?
● Fallacies are defects that weaken arguments.
● First, fallacious arguments are very, very common and can be quite
persuasive, at least to the causal reader or listener. You can find
dozens of examples of fallacious reasoning in newspapers,
advertisements, and other sources.
● Second, it is sometimes hard to evaluate whether an argument is
fallacious.
● An argument might be very weak, somewhat weak, somewhat
strong, or very strong. An argument that has several stages or parts
might have some strong sections and some weak ones.
4. ● Fallacies are flaws in the way reasoning and
evidence is used in an argument.
● Sometimes peoaple are intentionally fallacious in
order to manipulate, and sometimes they are not
aware of their fallacies.
● As critical thinkers, we must learn to recognize
these fallacies—especially in the media, in politics,
with your professors, peers, or anyone else who
tries to influence/persuade you.
Definition of Fallacy
5. Faulty logic and
arguments often
appear to be correct.
Informal Fallacies Formal Fallacies
Arguments that are flawed because of
mistaken assumptions in the premises,
errors in language, misuse of evidence,
or violation of argument principles.
.
These occur because of
mistakes in the logical
structure of the argument in
terms of syllogisms.
7. AD HOMINEM
● attacking the arguer rather than the
argument; discrediting an argument by
trashing the person making it.
● Watch for this is EVERY political debate!
● Marked by or being an attack on an
opponent's character rather than by an
answer to the contentions made.
8. AD HOMINEM
● ‘Ad hominem’ is Latin for ‘to the man,’ and the idea
in this kind of fallacy is that criticisms are directed
towards the person rather than to the person’s
thoughts about or arguments for a particular view.
● Ad hominem reasoning is fallacious since
logically, the faults of the person are one thing
and the defects in what he or she says are quite
another.
● The faults of the individual don’t automatically
attach themselves to what he or she says.
9.
10. There isn’t just one type of ad hominem fallacy. Let’s look at the
different types of ad hominem arguments you might find.
•Abusive - This is where the person is directly attacked. (i.e. This is
why a woman shouldn’t do a man's job.)
•Circumstantial - Personal circumstances motivate a person's
argument, so it must be false. (i.e. This car is proven to get great gas
mileage. Yeah right! You just want my sale.)
•Guilt by Association - Due to an association to something negative,
an argument is discredited. (i.e. Pol Pot was evil and against religion.
All people against religion are bad.)
•Tu Quoque - Past actions discredit your argument. (i.e. You don’t
believe that cheating is bad when you cheated on your wife.)
11. PERSONALATTACK AD HOMINEMS
● Disliking either a person or something negative
about him, and finding critically acceptable
reasons to reject a claim that he makes are two
different things.
● We commit the error or fallacy of reasoning
called ‘ad hominem’ when we reject a person’s
claim merely because we dislike the person or
something about the person.
12. PERSONALATTACK AD HOMINEMS
○ This version of ad hominem is called
personal attack.
○ Because we simply reject a claim made by a
person or group because we dislike the
person or group, personal attack ad
hominem pseudoreasoning is much more
emotional or psychological than it is rational
or logical.
13. PERSONAL ATTACK AD HOMINEMS
● If we think that a person’s negative characteristics are
relevant to rejecting a claim she makes, then it may be
plausible to reject the claim.
○ However, we must be able to explain the relation of those
characteristics to the claim being made so that rejecting the
claim for this reason can be made plausible.
○ For instance, if we know that a person x is a hater of another
class of people y, then any negative claim about y made by x
may be reasonably regarded as being suspicious and likely to
be false.
○ Thus, further information may be needed to assess the claim
accurately.
14.
15. CIRCUMSTANTIAL AD HOMINEMS
● Circumstantial ad hominem =df. A fallacy in which
a person’s claim is rejected based upon the
circumstances of the person making the claim.
● In circumstantial ad hominem the attack is not on
the person, but her circumstances, and it is inferred
that a claim made by the person is false because
someone in her position or circumstances would
make such a claim.
16. CIRCUMSTANTIAL AD HOMINEMS
○ For instance, thinking that a tax cut proposed by a
wealthy congressman cannot be good for the average
person because of his position of wealth is a
circumstantial ad hominem.
○ Rejecting Bill’s arguments against the death penalty
because he is sitting on death row is also circumstantial
ad hominem.
● Personal attack and circumstantial ad hominems
overlap, and trying to distinguish between them in
particular instances can be pointless.
● The main thing to recognize is that, if it is an ad
hominem, then it is fallacious.
17.
18. PSEUDO REFUTATION
● Psedo refutation =df. A type of ad hominem
based on charges of inconsistency where no
relevant inconsistency exists.
● Relevant inconsistencies are inconsistencies
between claims.
● if Jane says that it is both snowing and not
snowing at the same time in the same place,
then we can reject her claim as logically
inconsistent.
● .
19. PSEUDO REFUTATION
● But if there are no inconsistencies between claims then
the fact that a person may not act (or may not always have
acted) as if the claim is true does not allow us to infer that
the claim is false or even that the person thinks it is.
○ For instance, we cannot reject Jane’s claim to love Jim
simply by noting that she has never acted as if she
loved Jim.
○ And we can’t then infer that she herself believes her
claim about her love for Jim to be false. Either would
be pseudo refutation.
20. ● We must also recognize that a person
can change his mind.
○ Thus, a person does not contradict herself by now
agreeing with the morality of euthanasia when she
earlier rejected it.
○ To say that this is contradictory is pseudorefutation.
21. “POSITIVE”AD HOMINEM
● To this point we have looked at ad hominem
arguments in relations to something negative about a
person, and have seen that, in abusive or personal
attack ad hominem, a person’s claim is rejected
merely because we dislike the person or something
about the person.
● However, it is also fallacious to accept an argument
merely we like the person or something about the
person.
22. “POSITIVE”AD HOMINEM
● This form of pseudo reasoning does not have
a name in the literature, but it is an ad
hominem because a person’s claim is
accepted, not on the basis of critically
acceptable arguments, but because of an
agreeable characteristic(s) which the person
has.
● Accordingly, it is once again emotional or
psychological rather than rational or logical.
23. “POSITIVE”AD HOMINEM
● However, as before with negative characteristics, if we think that a
positive characteristic(s) of a person is relevant to accepting a
claim she makes, then it may be plausible to accept the claim.
● However, we must be able to explain the relation of those
characteristics to the claim being made so that accepting the
claim for this reason can be made plausible.
○ For instance, if we know that Jane is a lover of classical music, and
her love has made her listen carefully and extensively to such music,
then a claim which she makes about the worth of a particular classical
composition might be accepted hypothetically as likely to be true, at
the same time that further information may be needed to assess
24. EXAMPLE
Sam: "I believe that abortion is morally wrong."
Jessica: "Of course you would say that, you're a priest."
Sam: "What about the arguments I gave to support my
position?"
Jessica: "Those don't count. Like I said, you're a priest, so
you have to say that abortion is wrong. Further, you are just
a lackey to the Pope, so I can't believe what you say."
25. EXPLANATION
Jessica is attacking Sam because he is a
priest rather than the argument he uses to
support the fact that abortion is wrong.
Dave says that he has to believe that
because he is a priest.
26. EXAMPLE
Dear Editor, The current campaign against combining drinking with
driving is terrorising law-abiding people. Many law-abiding people
are cutting their alcohol consumption because they are afraid of
being caught by random breath testing. But research shows that
the average drink-driver in a fatal accident has an average blood
alcohol level of more than twice the legal limit. The current
campaign against drinking and driving is failing to achieve what
should be our top priority; getting the heavy and hardened
drinkers of the road.” Douglas Myers. CEO, Dominion Breweries.
27. EXPLANATION
“Dear Editor, I read Doug Myer’s letter yesterday but
he is the CEO of a major brewing company! He
has a vested interest in keeping alcohol sales up,
and the anti-drink-driving campaign threatens to
reduce alcohol sales. We shouldn’t take any
notice of his views about drinking and driving”.
28.
29. In Political Debates
Have you ever watched a presidential debate? Boy, can
they get ugly. Some politicians have even been known to
resort to name-calling. Things certainly get sticky in the
political arena; here are a few examples to that effect.
•Degrading another politician during a campaign when
asked about a specific policy - "Well, I think we need to
look at Senator Smith's failures regarding this issue."
•Responding in any debate with an attack on one's
personal beliefs - "You don't even belong to a church. How
can you claim to be a Christian?"
30. •Generalizing views of a political party as an
insulting argument to an individual who is a
member of a different party - "Well, it's pretty
obvious that your political party doesn't know
how to be fiscally responsible, so I wouldn't
expect you to be either.“
•Attacking an opponent's physical attractiveness
rather than looking at the faults in their politics -
“Just look at that face! How could anyone vote
for that?”
31. In Everyday Life
A simple conversation can suddenly take a left turn into ad
hominem territory. Something very innocent can inadvertently
become a personal attack on someone else. Let's take a look at a
few more examples so you can keep your ad hominem detective
skills on point.
•Using someone's education level as a means to exploit and
degrade the opposer's argument - "You didn't even finish high
school. How could you possibly know about this?“
•Demeaning a teacher's decision on grading by insulting her
intelligence - "Well, it's not like you graduated from a good school,
so I can see why you wouldn't know how to properly grade a
writing assignment."
32. •Stating that one's age precludes him from being able
to make an intelligent or meaningful argument - "You're
clearly just too young to understand.“
•Use of marital status to invalidate an opinion of
someone of a different status - "How can you make a
decision about someone having marital problems if
you've never been married yourself?"
•Stating that the ethnicity of the opposing individual
keeps him from formulating a valuable opinion - "You
are from the United States, so you could never
understand what it's like to live in a country like that."
33. Used in Media
•Whether it’s an opinion piece or lively on-air discussion, words can
easily get personal. Explore some different examples that attack
religion, sexual orientation, and even socioeconomic status.
•Attacking someone's own sexual orientation in arguing about the
right of LGBT individuals to marry - "The only reason you could
possibly be in favor of this is because you're not being honest
about your own sexuality."
•Using someone's known background or beliefs - "Of course you
would say that. You believe life begins at conception and have
never studied alternative facts."
34. •Stating that someone's argument is incorrect because
of her religious beliefs - "Perhaps if you weren't
Mormon, you would see this quite differently."
•Relying on socioeconomic status as a means to
undermine an opposing individual's opinion - "You
wouldn't understand since you have never had to
struggle."
•Using gender as a means to devalue an argument from
an opposing gender - "This is a female issue. As a man,
how can you have an opinion about this?"
36. Fallacious appeals to authority take the general form of:
1. Person (or people) P makes claim X. Therefore, X is true.
A fundamental reason why the Appeal to Authority can be
a fallacy is that a proposition can be well supported only
by facts and logically valid inferences. But by using an
authority, the argument is relying upon testimony, not
facts. A testimony is not an argument, and it is not a fact.
37. When we appeal to authority, we claim the
truth of a proposition is guaranteed because
of the opinion of a famous person.
Appeals to authority look like this:
Authority figure X says Y. Therefore, Y is true.
38. Appeal to authority is a common type of fallacy, or an
argument based on unsound logic.
When writers or speakers use appeal to authority, they
are claiming that something must be true because it is
believed by someone who said to be an "authority" on the
subject.
Whether the person is actually an authority or not, the
logic is unsound. Instead of presenting actual evidence,
the argument just relies on the credibility of the
"authority."
39. Types of Appeal to Authority
The different types of the Appeal to Authority are:
1. Legitimate Appeal to Authority
2. Appeal to Unqualified Authority
3. Appeal to Anonymous Authority
40. Legitimate Appeal to Authority
Legitimate appeals to authority involve testimony from individuals who are
truly experts in their fields and are giving advice that is within the realm of
their expertise, such as a real estate lawyer giving advice about real estate
law, or a physician giving a patient medical advice.
We must keep in mind that for such an appeal to be justified, certain
standards must be met:
1. The authority is an expert in the area of knowledge under consideration.
2. The statement of the authority concerns his or her area of mastery.
3. There is agreement among experts in the area of knowledge under
consideration.
41. Example: Legitimate Appeal to Authority
1. My doctor has said that medicine X will help my medical
condition. Therefore, it will help me with my medical
condition.
2. Richard Dawkins, an evolutionary biologist and perhaps
the foremost expert in the field, says that evolution is true.
Therefore, it's true.
42. Appeal to Unqualified Authority
Alternative Names:
Argumentum ad Verecundiam
The Appeal to Unqualified Authority may look like a Legitimate
Appeal to Authority, but it is not. The "authority" in this case may be
giving advice or testimony that is outside of their realm of expertise,
such as a person who suffers from a disease testifying about the
causes of that ailment even though they are not a doctor, or even a
doctor testifying about a medical issue that is actually outside of
their specialty or area of expertise.
43. An Appeal to an Unqualified Authority looks much like a
legitimate appeal to authority, but it violates at least one
of the three necessary conditions for such an appeal to be
legitimate:
1. The authority is an expert in the area of knowledge
under consideration.
2. The statement of the authority concerns his or her area
of mastery.
3. There is agreement among experts in the area of
knowledge under consideration.
44. Example: APPEAL TO UNQUALIFIED AUTHORITY
1. My favorite actor, who appeared in a movie about AIDS, has testified
that the HIV virus doesn’t really cause AIDS and that there has been
a cover-up. So, I think that AIDS must be caused by something other
than HIV and the drug companies are hiding it so that they can make
money from expensive anti-HIV drugs.
2. A commercial claims that a specific brand of cereal is the best way
to start the day because athlete Michael Jordan says that it is what
he eats every day for breakfast.
45. Appeal to Anonymous Authority
Alternative Names:
Hearsay - information received from other people
that one cannot adequately substantiate; gossip
Appeal to Rumor
The Appeal to Anonymous Authority is, essentially,
giving testimony or advice that refers to unnamed
sources, such as making a statement based on what
"experts" say or what "historians" contend, without
ever naming the sources. This calls into question the
validity of the testimony.
46. Arguments in Scientific Matters
We often see the Appeal to Anonymous Authority used in
arguments where scientific matters are at question:
1. Scientists have found that eating cooked meat causes
cancer.
2. Most doctors agree that people in America take too
many unnecessary drugs.
3. According to government experts, the new nuclear
storage facility poses no dangers.
47. 4. Environmental experts have demonstrated that
global warming does not really exist.
5. Every open-minded historian will agree that the
Bible is relatively historically accurate and that
Jesus existed.
6. I know a chemist who is an expert in his field,
and according to him evolution is nonsense.
7. They say that crime is increasing because of a lax
court system.
48. EXAMPLES OF APPEAL TO
AUTHORITY FALLACY:
1. A book argues that global warming is not
actually happening, and cites the research
of one environmental scientist who has been
studying climate change for several years.
2. Someone argues that drinking is morally
wrong and cites a sermon from her pastor
at church.
49. EXAMPLES OF APPEAL TO AUTHORITY FALLACY:
3. A little boy says that his friends should not go swimming
in a river because his Mama said there were germs in the
river.
4. A commercial claims that 3 out of 4 dentists would choose
this particular brand of toothpaste for their own families to
use.
5. My sister-in-law, who is a teacher, said that this school is
not somewhere that I would want to send my children.
50. Can you name the
fallacy?
03
Question 3
01
Question 1
02
Question 2
Choose a question:
51. Question 1
A politician arguing that his
opponent cannot possibly be
a good choice for women
because he has a religious
conviction that causes him
to be pro-life.
Ad Hominem Appeal to Authority
52. Question 2
Richard Dawkins, an
evolutionary biologist and
perhaps the foremost expert
in the field, says that
evolution is true. Therefore,
it's true.
Ad Hominem Appeal to Authority
53. Question 3
A mother who tells the
pediatrician that she doesn't
trust his judgment because
he's never been a mother..
Ad Hominem Appeal to Authority