Logical Fallacies

Flashcards for key terms and definitions related to logical fallacies.

Accent

Shifting the emphasis or accent in a deceptive way.

Accident

Trying to disprove a statement that is generally true with a specific example.

Ad Hoc

Using an off-the-cuff explanation with no evidence.

Amphiboly

The phrases and sentences have a double meaning.

Argumentum Ad Ignorantiam

Arguing from ignorance.

Argumentum Ad Baculum

The argument of the stick; a threat.

Argumentum Ad Hominem

To attack the person instead of the argument.

Argumentum Ad Misericordiam

To use emotion or call upon pity to hide the real argument.

Argumentum Ad Nauseam

The belief that something becomes true if repeated often.

Argumentum Ad Populum

It is correct because it is popular.

Argumentum Ad Verecundiam

Appeal to authority, but in an area outside his expertise.

Black or White Argument

Presenting an either/or situation when there are other alternatives.

Bullshit

Concealing the intended meaning.

Complex Question

A double question when the answer to the first is assumed to be 'yes'.

Composition

A group must have the same qualities or characteristics as its members.

Division

The individual must have the characteristics of the group.

Equivocation

Using the same term with different meanings.

Fallacy of the Beard

Assuming that individual actions have no collective impact.

Hasty Generalization

To generalize based on only a few examples.

Ignoratio Elenchi

The use of another issue—usually an emotional one—to draw attention from the real issue.

Non Sequitur

The conclusion does not follow from the preceding argument.

Petitio Principii

Assuming your conclusion as your proof; two things are seen as the cause and effect.

Post Hoc/Ergo Propter Hoc

Something is stated to be the result of something else without causal connection.

Slippery Slope

If event A happens, it will lead downhill to further undesirable results.

Special Pleading

The argument that the rules should not apply to this special case.

Straw Man

When an opponent's argument is overstated or misrepresented to be attacked or refuted.

Truth is in the Middle

Claiming 'average' gives the true picture, which may not be accurate.

False Analogy

Wrongful comparison of dissimilar situations.

Poisoning the Well

Unfavorable information is presented, making any claims after seem false.

Stereotyping

Using stereotypes as if they are accurate generalizations for the whole group.