Logical Fallacies Flashcards
Generalization
A point that a speaker or writer generations on the basis of considering a number of particular examples
Ex. 1 - All French people are rude
Ex. 2 - All white dogs are crusty
Begging the question
An informal fallacy that occurs when an argument’s premises assume the truth of the conclusion, instead of supporting it.
Ex. 1 - This granola bar is the healthiest thing you can eat because it’s made with all natural ingredients.
Ex. 2 - The Apple iPhone is the best smartphone on the planet because no one makes a better smartphone than Apple does.
Ad hominem
Involves commenting on or against the individual making an argument rather than on the argument itself
Ex. 1 - “How can you argue your case for vegetarianism when you are enjoying that steak?”
Ex. 2 - “You are utterly hopeless. Can’t you just make a simple tea for the guests?”
Non-sequitur
A conclusion that isn’t aligned with previous statements or evidence
Ex. 1 - If someone asks what it’s like outside and you reply, “It’s 2:00”
Ex. 2 - Birds have wings, and bees have wings; therefore, birds are bees.
Red herring
Irrelevant information is presented alongside relevant information, distracting attention from that relevant information
Ex. 1 - Politician discussing how they feel about a similar topic after failing to answer the original question
Ex. 2 - Convincing a parent to lend you the car : “I know you don’t want me to borrow the car, but I was going to pick up coffee for you.”
