Logical Fallacies Flashcards
Logical Fallacy
An error is reasoning that results in an invalid argument.
Post Hoc
From the Latin “Post hoc, ergo, procter hoc”, “After this, therefore, because of this.” The assumption that a result has occured simply because an event took place before it.
Generalization
Assigning a quality to an entire group of people simply because a few display those traits.
Circular Reasoning
“Begging the question”; the assumption that the conclusion and premise must be equal.
Straw Man
Distorting an argument so that it is easily dismissed.
False Cause / Effect
A broad scope of logical fallacy where one incorrectly indicates that one event is caused by another.
Poisoning The Well
Shutting down an open discussion by stigmatizing the topic.
Slippery Slope
A form of hyperbole where one assumes that because of a certain conclusion, something disastrous will inevitably happen.
Equivocation
Equating two different topics by shifting the meaning or application of an idea (or situation, etc.)
Either / Or
An arbitrary binary opposition.
Red Herring
An intentional digression from the topic at hand.
Positive / Negative Transfer
The belief that an association with someone or something positive or negative transfers to the subject.
Oversimplified Solution
A proposed solution that is too simple to address the complexity of the problem.
Argument of Longevity
The assumption that because something has always been a certain way it should remain as such.
Non Sequitor
From the Latin “it does not follow”, A conclusion that is not related to the topic.
