Untitled Flashcard Set

Begging the Question

A fallacy in which the writer tries to prove something by simply repeating it in different words instead of giving real evidence.

Circular Reasoning

A fallacy in which the conclusion of an argument is simply restated in the premise, so the argument goes in a circle and doesn’t provide real evidence.

False Analogy

A fallacy that occurs when two things are compared that are not really alike in the relevant ways, making the comparison misleading.

False Dilemma

A fallacy that oversimplifies a complex issue by presenting it as having only two choices when more options actually exist.

Faulty Use of Authority

A fallacy that occurs when someone is treated as an expert in one area but is cited as an authority in a completely unrelated area.

Hasty Generalization

A fallacy that occurs when a conclusion is drawn based on too little or insufficient evidence.

Non Sequitur

A fallacy in which the conclusion does not logically follow the premise.

Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc

A fallacy that assumes that because one event follows another, the first event must have caused the second.

Red Herring

A fallacy that introduces irrelevant information to distract the audience from the real issue.

Slippery Slope

A fallacy that assumes one event will inevitably lead to a chain of other events ending in a disaster, without providing evidence that this will actually happen.

Stacking the Deck

A fallacy in which a writer presents only evidence that supports their argument while ignoring or withholding evidence that contradicts it.

Ad Hominem Argument

A personal attack on an opponent rather than the opponent's view.

Ad Misericordiam Argument

A fallacy that tries to win an argument by making people feel sorry instead of using logical reasons or evidence.

Ad Populum Argument

A fallacy that tries to prove something is true or right just because many people believe or do it.