The Art of Argument (pt 1)

Question 1

The informal fallacies are divided into what three categories?

Answer 1

1. Fallacies of irrelevance
2. Fallacies of presumption
3. Fallacies of clarity

Question 2

Explain Fallacies of irrelevance

Answer 2

making points that just don’t relate to the issue [Oftentimes people make arguments that are simply not relevant to the issue at hand. Whenever someone argues for something, or introduces facts, issues, testimonies, and evidence that do not truly bear on the issue at hand, he or she is violating the principle of relevance.]

Question 3

Explain Fallacies of presumption

Answer 3

making assumptions that are not justified or necessary [Whenever people assume something that is illegitimate in the course of making an argument they violate the principle of presumption. Usually people make these assumptions in a stealthy hidden manner that is hard to detect.]

Question 4

Explain Fallacies of clarity

Answer 4

using language that confuses the argument [whenever people make arguments using language in a way that is confusing, tricky, or deceiving they are violating the principle of clarity.]

Question 5

As you learn to evaluate arguments what are three questions you want to ask yourself?

Answer 5

1. Is his point relevant to the discussion
2. What does his argument presume?
3. Is he being clear?