Common Logical Fallacies Flashcards
Hasty Generalizations
These arguments are based on atypical, irrelevant, or inaccurate evidence - usually because the samples from which the evidence comes is too small.
Ex. All poets are suicidal. Look at the one poem by one poet talking about committing suicide!
Post Hoc (faulty cause and effect)
These arguments are based on the assumption that if event B happens after event A, even A caused event B.
Reductive Reasoning (reducing complexity)
This is an attempt to explain a complex effect through a simple cause.
False Analogies
This occurs when a writer tries to draw similarities between two very different things, and the conclusion ends up being absurd.
Begging the question
What it means to assume that the point they are arguing is true. If this really were the case, the point would not need arguing. They do not know if it is true or not because it hasn’t happened yet.
Circular Reasoning
This argument consists of stating the conclusion it was meant to support.
Ex. The priest is a good person because he is virtuous.
Ad Hominem
Attacking the person rather than the argument.
False Dilemma
Assumption that there are only a limited number of truths.
Appeal to popularity
Bandwagon Appeal
Non Sequitors
“It does not follow.” It happens when there really isn’t a clear connection between the premises and the conclusion.
Fallacy of the Golden mean
Assume the middles ground between two extremes is correct, when if fact only one may be correct.
Appeal to Force
Employs threats or intimidation as tools of persuasion.
Ex. Of course there is a God and if you deny God’s existence you will burn in hell”
Appeal to the Crowd
Seeks to strengthen a claim by appeal to the passions and prejudices of listeners.
Ex. “My fellow Canadians, a vote against our military role in Libya is a vote against Canada itself.”
