Fallacies

Stereotyping

Using stereotypes as if they are accurate generalizations for the whole group (ex. German people aren’t good at dancing our sambas. She’s German. So, she’s not going to be any good at dancing our sambas.)

False Analogy

Wrongful comparison of dissimilar situations (ex. Doctors use x-rays during operations, students should use books during exams.)

Straw Man (Arguing off Point)

When an opponent's argument is overstated or misrepresented in order to be attacked or refuted. (ex. The Republicans want to starve women and children, take away your Social Security, pollute your air, and ruin your life.)

Slippery Slope

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

Post Hoc (False Cause)

Something is stated to be the only cause, when there may be many causes (ex. Every time the Democrats get into office, we have a war.)

Begging the Question (Circular Reasoning)

Assuming your conclusion as your proof (ex. I'm right because I'm saying it.)

Non sequitur

The conclusion does not follow from the preceding argument; to give a nonsensical answer to a challenge (ex. John does not drink or smoke, so he ought to make a good husband)

Red Herring

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

Hasty Generalization (Overgeneralizing)

To generalize based on only a few examples (ex. I met two rude people from New York, so all New Yorkers must be rude.)

Black or White Argument

Presenting an either/or situation when there are other alternatives (ex. You vote for me or you vote for the end of civilization as we know it)

Ad Populum (Bandwagon)

It is correct because it is popular (ex. Peer pressure, rumors, designer clothes/fads)

Ad Hoc

When someone makes up a justification to support their argument after it has been challenged, even if that justification is not supported by evidence or logic.