When thinking about how to make an argument, it's important to avoid logical fallacies. Fallacies are invalid ways of thinking that can lead to false conclusions. They can undermine your argument and your credibility. It's important to establish logical sound points to reach a logically sound conclusion that cannot be undermined.
A few examples of logical fallacies are:
Slippery Slope-if A happens, then B will definitely happen until the worst scenario inevitably occurs.
Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc-Because B followed A, A caused B.
Hasty Generalization-Because A has initially resulted in certain outcomes, A is absolutely classified under those outcomes.
Begging the Claim/Question: When asked to explain A, does not answer the question, instead triggers another question to explain the first answer.
Circular Argument-Similar to Begging the Claim/Question, when asked to explain A, does not answer the initial question or raises additional questions to explain first answer.
Ad Populum/Bandwagon-Utilizes popularity of A to convince others of its validity.
Ad Hominem-Attacking qualities of A that are not relevant to the argument such as a politician's appearance.
Genetic Fallacy-Assuming A has inherited all the qualities of B and therefore B is identical to A.
Either/Or-Assuming that there can only be two choices, A or B, and no other options exist.
Moral Equivalence-Falsely equating A with B, exaggerated hyperbole meant typically meant to degrade A by association with B.
Red Herring-When discussing A, brings up B to distract from A though they may or may not be related.
Straw Man-When A is misrepresented as B.
Learn more about logical fallacies and how to avoid them:
0 Comments.