Logical Fallacies

Hasty Conclusion

Making a decision without sufficient evidence. Identify it by the argument not having enough evidence to prove their point.

Poverty of Aspect

Tunnel Vision; focusing only on a small part of an argument, usually based on what you know already. Identify by the argument being very one-dimensional

Oversimplification

when you make a complex thing very easy, one-dimensional. identify by them using absolute terms, focusing on one aspect of somoething, a cause only has one effect, or an effect only has cause, doesn;t identify all the factors of a situation.

Overgeneralization

ascribing one set of characteristics to all members of a group without exception. Identify using absolute terms like everything, all, etc.,

Contradiction

something can’t be both true and false at the same time. Identify: makes a statement in one sentence, then says the opposite in the next sentence.

Changing the subject

switching topics when we don’t want to deal with the opposing argument. Identify: not addressing the opposing party’s argument, and arguing something else

Unwarranted assumption:

Something you believe is true without any evidence and it’s the basis of your argument. Identify: they make a claim that’s not supported with any evidence. 

False Cause and Effect:

Reasoning for the connection between two occurrences is not valid

shifting the burden of proof

Rather than support your position, you ask the other party. Identify by asking the other side to prove that you are wrong.

Relativism

All solutions are correct, everyone’s opinion has to be respected. Identify: someone who won’t take sides,

Straw Man

Claiming that someone else said something that they didn’t and then showing why they’re wrong. Identify: when they claim someone said something that they didn’t.

Biased consideration of evidence:

When you only look for data and facts that support your position

Irrational appeal

Asking someone to believe something without evidence: Emotion, tradition, moderation, etc.

Either/or outlook

There are only two answers with no middle ground

False authority

When the writer gives someone the credibility when they don’t really have it

False analogy

When you try to explain something by using something that isn’t synonymous with what you are trying to prove.

Mindless Conformity

Believing others without considering evidence

Double Standard