falaccy

inductive reasoning

Draws conclusions or generalizations based on specific examples/events that are truly representative of the general area being examined.

deductive reasoning

Developed by presenting specific examples that are drawn from the generalization about the subject.

non sequiter arguments

This Latin phrase means 'does not follow.' This is the argument that has a conclusion that does not follow from the premise.

begging the question

A mistake in which the writer assumes in his assertion/premise/thesis something that really needs to be proved.

straw man argument

A technique where the speaker/writer attributes false or exaggerated characteristics or behaviors to opponents and attacks them on those falsehoods.

ad hominem argument

Literally means to 'argue against the man.' This technique attacks the person rather than dealing with the issue under discussion.

hasty generalization

A conclusion about an entire group based on evidence which is too scant or insufficient.

post hoc argument

This fallacy cites an unrelated event that occurred earlier as the cause of a current situation.

faulty causation

Similar to post hoc but looks at situations in a larger, more global sense.

either/or argument

Also known as the False Dilemma; asserts that there are only two possibilities when, in reality, there are more.

bandwagon

Based on the assumption that the opinion of the majority is always valid.

slippery slope

The arguer claims that a chain reaction, usually ending in some dire consequence, will take place, but there's really not enough evidence for that assumption.

weak analogy

Many arguments rely on an analogy between two or more objects, ideas, or situations; if the comparison isn't really alike in relevant respects, it commits the fallacy of weak analogy.

red herring argument

committed when someone introduces irrelevant material to the issue being discussed, diverting attention away from the points made.