Logical Fallacies Flashcards
Post Hoc
From the Latin phrase, “Post hoc, ergo, propter hoc.” meaning “After this, therefore, because of this.”
This fallacy argues that because one certain event took place, a result must have followed specifically because of the result before it.
False Cause
A broad scope of logical fallacy; this type of logic indicates that one event must have cause another with no reasoning.
Circular Reasoning
Also known as “begging the question.”
An assumption that a premise must equal a conclusion.
Straw Man
Distorting an argument so that it is easy to dismiss.
Moral Relativism
Moral relativism is the view that moral judgments are true or false only relative to some particular standpoint (for instance, that of a culture or a historical period) and that no standpoint is uniquely privileged over all others.
“Poisoning the Well”
Shutting down an argument by stigmatizing the topic at hand.
Slippery Slope
Making a hyperbole by suggesting that the topic of discussion will inevitably lead to a disastrous consequence.
Equivocation
Equating two separate ideas, situations (etc.) by shifting the meaning or application or that idea (or situation, etc.)
“Either/Or”
Applying arbitrary binary opposition to an argument.
“Red Herring”
Deliberate digression / distraction from the argument.
Positive / Negative Transfers
The belief that association with someone or something positive or negative directly reflects on the subject.
Oversimplified Solution
Providing an overly simple resolution for a topic of high complexity.
Longevity
The idea that because something has always been one way, that it should remain that way.
Non-Sequitor
Latin for “It does not follow.”
The conclusion or rebuttal does not relate to the original argument.
Bandwagon Appeal
An argument suggesting that because something is popular it must be correct.
