Fallacies of Language

Question 1

List the fallacies of Language.

Answer 1

1) Equivocation
2) Amphiboly
3) Accent
4) Slanting
5) Slogans
6) Hyperbole
7) “Straw Man”

Question 2

Define the fallacy of Equivocation.

Answer 2

The same term is used in two or more different ways during the course of an argument.

Question 3

Define the fallacy of Amphiboly.

Answer 3

The syntax (grammatical structure) of an argument is ambiguous. (The foundation of most puns.)

Question 4

Define the fallacy of Accent.

Answer 4

There is an ambiguity resulting from voice inflection, ironic, or sarcastic tone. (Innuendo.)

Question 5

Define the fallacy of Slanting.

Answer 5

Instead of proving the goodness or badness of a thing, the person uses language that assumes its value or disvalue in the very description of the thing to be proved.

Question 6

Define the fallacy of Slogans.

Answer 6

The use of slogans as a substitute for arguments.

Question 7

Define the fallacy of Hyperbole.

Answer 7

Exaggerating things to an unreasonable degree.

Question 8

Define the fallacy of Straw Man.

Answer 8

Refuting an unfairly weak, stupid, or ridiculous version of an opposing argument instead of the more reasonable opposing argument actually argued.