Lecture 6 Flashcards
(19 cards)
Why do even smart people sometimes think illogically?
Because critical thinking is hard—we jump to conclusions, get emotional, misuse evidence, or fall for logical fallacies.
What is a fallacy?
A mistake in reasoning that makes an argument weak or incorrect. Example: Dismissing a scientist’s research because you dislike them.
Can a fallacious argument still be persuasive?
Yes—especially when it appeals to emotion, popularity, or authority. Example: “Everyone’s doing it, so it must be right.”
What is an Ad Hominem fallacy?
Attacking the person making the argument instead of addressing the argument itself. Example: “Don’t listen to Sarah’s idea about recycling; she’s always been lazy.”
What is an Appeal to Emotion fallacy?
Trying to persuade others by appealing to feelings instead of facts. Example: Showing sad animals to argue against a law instead of discussing its actual impact.
What is a Red Herring fallacy?
Introducing irrelevant information to distract from the main argument. Example: Asked about your spending habits, you start talking about weekend plans.
What is Circular Reasoning?
Using the conclusion as part of the argument’s premise. Example: “The Bible is true because it’s the word of God, and we know that because the Bible says so.”
What is a False Cause fallacy?
Assuming one event caused another just because it happened first. Example: Wearing a lucky charm before winning a game and thinking the charm caused the win.
What is a Hasty Generalization?
Making a broad conclusion based on limited evidence. Example: Meeting one rude tourist and assuming everyone from that country is rude.
What is Begging the Question?
Assuming the truth of what you’re trying to prove without providing evidence. Example: “I deserve to win because I’m the best,” without proving you’re the best.
What is a False Dichotomy?
Presenting only two options when more exist. Example: “You’re either with us or against us,” ignoring other possible positions.
What is a Complex Question fallacy?
Asking a question that presupposes something unproven. Example: “Have you stopped cheating on exams?” implies cheating occurred without proof.
What is the Equivocation Fallacy?
Using a word with multiple meanings in misleading ways. Example: “I’m feeling light because I had a light meal,” using “light” differently.
What is the Amphiboly Fallacy?
Using confusing grammar or structure that allows multiple interpretations. Example: “Slow children crossing” could mean kids are slow or crossing slowly.
What is the Accent Fallacy?
Changing meaning by emphasizing different words in a sentence. Example: “I didn’t say YOU were wrong” vs. “I didn’t SAY you were wrong”—each emphasis changes the meaning.
Why do people fall into fallacious reasoning?
Because it’s easier, emotionally satisfying, and sometimes people aren’t aware they’re doing it.
Which fallacies are common in social media or politics?
Ad hominem, appeal to emotion, bandwagon, false dichotomy.
What is a Bandwagon Fallacy?
Assuming something is true or right because it’s popular. Example: “Everyone is switching to this new diet—it must be healthy!”
What is a Slippery Slope Fallacy?
Claiming one action will inevitably lead to a terrible chain of events. Example: “If we don’t ban TikTok, our society will collapse!”
