Flaws in Reasoning Notes

Flaws in Reasoning

Equivocation

• Definition: Sliding between different meanings of a single word/phrase.
• Example: Misusing "rights" to argue charities have a right to our money because giving is the right thing.

Conflation

• Definition: Treating different concepts as the same thing.
• Example: Equating the increasing number of obese people with an impending obesity crisis.

Circular Argument

• Definition: Assuming the conclusion in the argument.
• Example: Arguing active euthanasia is moral because it's ethical to help someone escape suffering through death.

Begging the Question

• Definition: Premises assume the conclusion is true; a type of circular reasoning.
• Example: Claiming violent crime suspects shouldn't have a fair trial because they acted unfairly.

Inappropriate Appeal to Authority

• Definition: Citing an unreliable authority who lacks expertise.
• Example: Agreeing with a celebrity's stance on global warming because they are famous.

Bandwagon Appeal

• Definition: Claiming an idea should be accepted because many people favor it.
• Structure:
  • Most people believe or do X.
  • Therefore, you should believe or do X.
• Example: "All my friends are doing it, so I should too."

Appeal to Emotion

• Definition: Evoking pity or compassion when feelings aren't logically relevant.
• Example: Requesting a grade change due to personal hardships.

Appeal to Tradition

• Definition: Justifying a claim based on tradition.
• Example: Continuing a family tradition of donating to charity.

Appeal to Novelty

• Definition: Claiming something new is superior solely based on its newness.
• Example: Arguing for new kitchen appliances to improve meal preparation time.