AP notes 38-42

Question 1

38. LOGICAL FALLACY

Answer 1

In argumentation, a formal fallacy (also called deductive fallacy) is a pattern of
reasoning/thinking rendered invalid by a flaw in its logical structure that can neatly be expressed
in a standard logic system, for example propositional logic. An argument that is
formally fallacious is always considered wrong

Question 2

39. PROPHECY:

Answer 2

Many believe that a prediction and a prophecy are the same, but they are mistaken. It is
true that both “forecast” the future, but there is a significant difference. A prophesy has all the
elements of a prediction except the element of time. Without the element of time, a prophecy is
hard to determine. A “prophecy” has more of a religious connotation since there is an element of
uncertainty about time.

Question 3

40. PREDICTION

Answer 3

A prediction is a forecast made by those who calculate the parameters of the subject
involved after evaluating the odds they can predict the future. The weather forecast is a good
example. A “prediction” is limited to a time element, unlike a prophesy.

Question 4

41. ADAGE:

Answer 4

An adage is a short, pointed and memorable saying based on facts, and is considered a
veritable truth by the majority of people. Famous adages become popular due to their usage over
a long period of time. In fact, an adage expresses a general fact or truth about life. As it becomes
popular, it is then accepted as a universal truth. For instance, “God helps those who help
themselves” is now considered a universal truth because of its usage throughout the human
history. Often repeated sayings and quotes become adages that pass on to many generations.

Question 5

42. PEDANTIC

Answer 5

: Pedantic comes from a French word, pedant, means “to teach or to act as pedagogue.” A
pedantic is someone who is concerned with precision, formalism, accuracy, minute details in
order to make an arrogant and ostentatious show of learning. He could be a writer, a character,
feelings, tone or words. Sigmund Freud defines pedantic as, “The pedant is he who finds it
impossible to read criticism of himself without immediately reaching for his pen and replying to
the effect that the accusation is a gross insult to his person.”A pedant often corrects small
mistakes that are not very important in grand matters and, therefore, may annoy others around
him.