AP Language Logical Fallacies

Question 1

Arguer goes off in a tangent or brings up a side issue to distract the audience from the issue that is being debated upon; often, the arguer never returns to the original issue

Answer 1

Red Herring

Question 2

Strengthening arguments by referring to respected sources or authorities whom explain their position on the issue. Often in an argument, we cite those who that do not have credibility in the subject

Answer 2

Appeal to Authority

Question 3

Takes place when we want the audience to accept a conclusion by making them feel sorry for someone or something

Answer 3

Appeal to Pity

Question 4

Comparing two things that are not alike to make the analogy weak

Answer 4

Weak Analogy

Question 5

Proposes an idea is true because the majority believes in it too

Answer 5

Bandwagon

Question 6

Appeal to evidence or examples that are irrelevant to the argument

Answer 6

Fallacies of Relevance

Question 7

Making assumptions about a whole group based on a sample that is so small, it is inadequate; stereotypes

Answer 7

Hasty Generalization

Question 8

Latin phrase “post hoc, ergo propter hoc” translates to “after this, therefore because of this.” Assuming B comes after A, A caused B

Answer 8

Post hoc (false cause)

Question 9

Claims that some sort of chain reaction will take place, usually ending in a dire consequence, but there is not enough evidence to support the assumption

Answer 9

Slippery Slope “Camel’s Nose”

Question 10

Fallacies that have errors in the process of reasoning where the conclusion is reached through illogical or disconnected means

Answer 10

Component Fallacies