Fallacies

Definitions of common logical fallacies.

Either/Or Fallacy

Presents only two options when more exist. Example: 'You're either with us, or against us.'

False Analogy

Compares two things not similar enough to support the conclusion. Example: 'Cars are like humans; they need regular checkups to avoid dying.'

Argument Ad Populum

Appeals to popular opinion instead of evidence. Example: 'Everyone believes it, so it must be true.'

Sweeping Generalization

Makes a broad claim lacking sufficient evidence or ignoring exceptions. Example: 'All teenagers are reckless drivers.'

Reductive Fallacy

Oversimplifies a complex issue. Example: 'Poverty is simply a result of laziness.'

Red Herring

Diverts attention by introducing an irrelevant topic. Example: 'You question my policies, but what about the economy?'

Snob Appeal

Appeals to the desire to be part of an elite group. Example: 'Only the most discerning appreciate this wine.'

Bandwagon

Argues something is true because it's popular. Example: 'Since everyone is doing it, it must be okay.'

Argument Ad Hominem

Attacks the person instead of the argument. Example: 'You can't trust his opinion because he's a convicted felon.'

Flattery

Uses compliments to persuade. Example: 'Someone as smart as you will surely agree with my plan.'

Hasty Generalization

Draws conclusion from insufficient evidence. Example: 'I met two rude people from that town, so everyone there must be rude.'

Post Hoc

Assumes causation based on sequence. Example: 'I wore this shirt, and we won. This shirt brings victory!'

Non Sequitur

Conclusion doesn't follow from the premises. Example: 'She's wearing glasses, so she must be smart.'

Begging the Question

Assumes the conclusion in the premise. Example: 'God exists because the Bible says so, and the Bible is the word of God.'

Appeal to False Authority

Cites an unqualified source as evidence. Example: 'An actor endorsing a medical product.'

Appeal to Pity

Evokes compassion to persuade. Example: 'Please give me a good grade; my cat is sick.'