Logical Fallacies

Question 0

Slippery slope

Answer 0

This is a conclusion based on the premise that if A happens, then eventually through a series of small steps, through B, C…Z will happen too, equating A to Z. So, if we don’t want Z to occur, A must not be allowed to occur either.

Question 1

Fallacies

Answer 1

Common errors in reasoning that will undermine the logic of your argument. Fallacies can be very legitimate arguments or irrelevant points, and are often identified because they lack evidence to support their claim.

Question 2

Hasty generalization

Answer 2

A conclusion based on insufficient or biased evidence. In other words, you are rushing to a conclusion before you have all the relevant facts.

Question 3

Post hoc

Answer 3

A conclusion that assumes that if A occurred after B then B must have caused A.

Question 4

Non-sequitur

Answer 4

When one statement isn’t logically connected to another

Question 5

Begging the claim

Answer 5

The conclusion that the writer should prove is validated with in the claim.

Question 6

Circular argument

Answer 6

This restates the argument rather than actually proving it

Question 7

Either/or

Answer 7

This is a conclusion that oversimplifies the argument by reducing it to only two sides or choices

Question 8

Ad hominem

Answer 8

This is an attack on the character of a person rather than their opinions or arguments

Question 9

Red herring

Answer 9

A diversionary tactic that avoids the key issues, often by avoiding opposing arguments rather than addressing them.

Question 10

Straw man

Answer 10

Oversimplified and opponents viewpoint and that attacks the hollow argument.