Lesson 35: Fallacies of Form

Question 1

What is a fallacy of form?

Answer 1

Fallacies of form are arguments that fail to establish their conclusions because of a weakness in logical structure.

Question 2

What are the five fallacies of form?

Answer 2

1. Circular reasoning
2. Post hoc ergo propter hoc: After this, therefore because of this
3. Either/or
4. Complex question
5. Apriorism

Question 3

What is circular reasoning?

Answer 3

Circular reasoning is secretly assuming what you are trying to prove.
Ex: She must love me, because she says she does. And she would not lie to someone she loves, would she?

Question 4

What is post hoc ergo propter hoc?

Answer 4

Post hoc ergo propter hoc is improperly assuming that a sequence in time implies a cause and effect.
Ex: The American War for Independence happened after the Renaissance; therefore the Renaissance was one of the causes.

Question 5

What is either/or?

Answer 5

Either/or is making an argument based on a false dilemma.

Ex: What, you didn’t finish your homework? You must be either stupid or lazy.

Question 6

What is a complex question?

Answer 6

A complex question is a question crafted to exclude any possible legitimate response.
Ex: “Have you stopped beating your wife yet?” To say ‘yes’ is to admit past guilt, and to say ‘no’ is to continue unrepentance.

Question 7

What is apriorism?

Answer 7

Apriorism is a hasty generalization.

Ex: I tried to talk to that new boy Tommy yesterday, and he stuck his tongue out at me. Boys are so mean!