Ten Common Informal Fallacies You Need to Know
We all like to think that we approach arguments logically and rationally, but sometimes we fall prey to common fallacies that affect our reasoning. These are called informal fallacies, and they occur when we make mistakes in thinking or using flawed reasoning. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at ten of the most common informal fallacies you need to know.
1. Ad hominem fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we attack the person making an argument rather than their argument itself. For example, saying someone’s argument is invalid because of their background or personal beliefs.
2. Appeal to authority fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we accept an argument just because someone in authority says it’s true, without evaluating the evidence ourselves.
3. Straw man fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we misrepresent or exaggerate an opponent’s argument to make it easier to refute.
4. False dilemma fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we present only two options as though they are the only options available, ignoring other possibilities.
5. Hasty generalization fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we draw a conclusion about a population based on a limited sample of that population.
6. Slippery slope fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we argue that a specific action will inevitably lead to a series of disastrous consequences.
7. False cause fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we wrongly assume that just because one event followed another event, the first event caused the second.
8. Begging the question fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we assume that what we are trying to prove is already true. For example, arguing that a particular law is good because it’s the law.
9. Red herring fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we raise an irrelevant topic to divert attention away from the original argument.
10. Ad populum fallacy
This fallacy occurs when we argue that something is true because it’s popular or because “everyone” believes it, rather than presenting evidence to support our claim.
To avoid these fallacies, we need to be aware of them and take care to evaluate arguments based on evidence and logic rather than being swayed by irrelevant or emotionally charged arguments. By understanding these ten common informal fallacies, we can improve our critical thinking skills and become better at making sound, rational arguments.
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