AP LANG rhetorical terms + fallacy

Ad Hominem

• Attacks character or motive of the person making an argument rather than argument itself.

• Used to undermine credibility and distract from the actual issue.

• Can manifest as name-calling or questioning someone's qualifications.

Straw Man

• Misrepresents or oversimplifies opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.

• Involves creating a distorted version of the argument that is easier to refute.

• Diverts attention from the original issue and can lead to misunderstandings.

False Dichotomy/dilemma/ b + w thinking

• Presents only two options when more exist, forcing a choice.

• Ignores complexity of issues and oversimplifies decision-making.

• Used to manipulate opinions by framing the argument in extreme terms.

Slippery Slope

• Argues that a small first step will lead to a chain of events resulting in significant (usually negative) consequences.

• Lacks evidence to support the inevitability of the progression.

• Can create fear and resistance to change based on exaggerated outcomes.
  

Appeal to Authority

• Claims that a statement is true because authority figure endorses it.

• Relies on credibility of the authority rather than the strength of the argument.

• Can be misleading if the authority is not an expert in the relevant field.

Hasty Generalization

• Draws a conclusion based on insufficient evidence.

• involves making broad claims based on a small sample size.

• Can lead to stereotypes and misconceptions.

Post Hoc

• Assumes that because one event followed another, the first event caused the second.

• Ignores other potential causes or factors that may have influenced outcome.

• Can lead to faulty conclusions about causation.

Bandwagon Fallacy

• Argues that a claim is true or acceptable simply because it is popular or widely believed.

• Relies on pressure to conform rather than on logical reasoning.

• Can stifle critical thinking and discourage independent thought.

Red Herring

• Introduces irrelevant information to distract from the main argument

• Can shift the focus away from the topic at hand, leading to confusion.

• Used to evade difficult questions or criticisms.

Circular Reasoning

• The argument's conclusion is included in the premise, creating a loop without providing real evidence.

• Fails to advance the argument or provide new information.

• Often results in a lack of clarity and understanding.

Appeal to Emotion

• Manipulates emotions to persuade rather than using logical reasoning.

• Can evoke feelings such as fear, pity, or anger to influence opinions.

• Often overshadows rational debate and critical analysis.

Begging the Question

• Assumes the truth of the conclusion within the premises, creating a circular argument.

• Fails to provide independent support for the claim being made.

• Can lead to unproductive discussions and reinforce biases.

Tu Quoque

• Dismisses an argument by pointing out hypocrisy in the opponent rather than addressing the argument itself.

• Focuses on the behavior of the person rather than the validity of their claims.

• Can derail constructive dialogue and reinforce defensiveness.