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Definition
| Errors in reasoning. Fallacies can be seen as (1) reasons that seem logical but don’t necessarily support the conclusion or (2) statements that distract listeners from the real issue. |
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| Comparison of one situation or idea to another that disregards significant differences that make the comparison invalid. |
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| False cause (post hoc ergo propter hoc) |
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| A fallacy that occurs when there is no real proof that one event is caused another event; there is only evidence that one event came after another event. |
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| A relationship or connection between two objects or events. Noting a correlation is sometimes the first step in exploring causation, but it does not equal causation. |
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| Ad hominem (attacking the person) |
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Definition
| A Latin term meaning “to the man” or attacking the person, Ad hominem occurs when a person is attacked on a personal quality that is irrelevant to the issue under discussion. |
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Definition
| A logical fallacy that occurs when someone argues that others should follow a course of action or hold a certain belief for no other reason than that they should feel compassion for the irrelevant claims or irresponsibility of the speaker. |
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| A fallacy that occurs when a belief or action is supported on the ground that it conforms to traditional ideas or practices. |
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Definition
| A connection between two events in which it is established that one event caused the other. |
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Definition
| A fallacy that occurs when serious consequences of a potential action or policy are predicted and not substantiated by evidence. |
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Definition
| A fallacy in which an opponent’s argument is distorted or exaggerated and then more easily attacked. |
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Definition
| A fallacy in which a generalization is drawn from a small and thus inadequate sample of information. |
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Term
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Definition
| A process whereby an expectation becomes a reality. |
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Term
| False dilemma (either-or-fallacy) |
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Definition
| An error in reasoning that occurs when one polarizes a situation by presenting only two alternatives, at two extremes of the spectrum of possibilities. |
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Definition
| A fallacy that occurs when a speaker or writer assumes what needs to be proven. |
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Definition
| A fallacy in which reasons offered to support conclusions lead the listener away from the issue under consideration. |
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| A fallacy that is used to excuse bad behavior on the grounds of other bad behavior; the fallacy occurs when someone rationalizes that one person’s or one group’s action is justified because some other person’s or group’s action is just as bad or worse. |
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Definition
| A fallacy that is committed when someone denies a claim because they believe the speaker who is making the claim is hypocritical. |
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Term
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Definition
| A fallacy that consists of a false appeal to the authority of “everyone.” This fallacy is based on the assumption that a course of action should be taken or an idea should be supported because “everyone” is doing it or believe it. |
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