Fallacy Terms

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to various logical fallacies.

Ad Hoc

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

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 Populum

It is correct because it is popular.

Black or White Argument

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

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.

Hasty Generalization

To generalize based on only a few examples.

Red Hering

The use of another issue to draw attention from the real issue.

Non sequitur

The conclusion does not follow from the preceding argument.

Begging the Question

assuming your conclusion as your proof.

Post Hoc/Ergo Propter Hoc

It occurs when it is assumed that one event caused another simply because it happened first. This fallacy misrepresents the relationship between events by suggesting a causal link without sufficient evidence. For instance, if person A wore a lucky shirt and subsequently won a game, they might conclude that the shirt caused the victory. However, this reasoning ignores various other factors (skill, teamwork, etc.) that may have contributed to the outcome.

Slippery Slope

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

Straw Man

It occurs when a person's position or argument is misrepresented, exaggerated, or distorted in order to make it easier to attack or refute. Instead of engaging with the actual argument presented, the opponent constructs a 'straw man' version that is weaker and more simplistic. This tactic can lead to a false representation of the original argument and may mislead audiences, and constructive debate, as it diverts attention from the real issues

False Analogy

A false analogy is a logical fallacy that occurs when an argument is based on misleading, superficial, or implausible comparisons between two different situations, ideas, or objects. This fallacy assumes that because two things share some similarities, they are necessarily alike in other significant aspects as well, which may not be true. False analogies can undermine arguments by misleading the audience and creating faulty reasoning. It is important to critically analyze the similarities and differences to determine the validity of the analogy.

Stereotyping

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