Logical Fallacies

Question 1

Fallacies

Answer 1

Common errors in reasoning that undermine the logic of an argument

Question 2

Slippery slope

Answer 2

Conclusion based on premise that if A happens, then eventually through a series of steps, X, Y, Z will happen too (equating A and Z)

Question 3

Hasty generalization

Answer 3

Conclusion based on insufficient or biased evidence

Question 4

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

Answer 4

Conclusion that assumes that if A occurred after B then B must have caused A

Question 5

Genetic fallacy

Answer 5

Conclusion based on an argument that origins of a person/idea determine its character or worth

Question 6

Begging the claim

Answer 6

Conclusion that the writer should prove is validated within the claim

Question 7

Circular argument

Answer 7

Restates the argument rather than actually proving it

Question 8

Either/or

Answer 8

Oversimplifies the argument by reducing it to only 2 sides

Question 9

Ad hominem

Answer 9

Attack on the character of a person rather than their arguments or opinions

Question 10

Ad populum

Answer 10

Emotional appeal that speaks to positive or negative concepts rather than the real issue at hand

Question 11

Red herring

Answer 11

Diversionary tactic that avoids the key issues (avoiding argument rather than addressing it)

Question 12

Straw man

Answer 12

Oversimplifies opponent’s viewpoint and then attacks the hollow argument

Question 13

Moral equivalence

Answer 13

Compares minor misdeeds with major atrocities