Fallacies I
This attacks the opponent’s character, sometimes involves namecalling.
Ad Hominem
This assumes that because one event happened after another, the first event must have caused the second.
Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc
This uses only one piece of evidence while ignoring evidence that proves otherwise.
Cherry Picking
This assumes that because two events or variables happen together, one must have caused the other.
Correlation Implies Causation
The Last Frontier
What is Alaska?
This assumes that a relatively small first step will lead to a chain of related (often negative) events, ultimately resulting in some significant (usually undesirable) outcome.
Slippery Slope
This is when someone assumes that the opponent’s argument is invalid because the opponent is a hypocrite.
Hypocrite Fallacy
This limits options to two extremely different choices.
False Dilemma or False Dichotomy
This depends on the trustworthiness of the majority. It argues that a claim must be true or good because many people believe it.
Bandwagoning
Sunflower State
What is Kansas?
This compares two things that are not sufficiently similar in relevant ways to support the conclusion being drawn.
False Analogy
This assumes the happy medium pleases the opponent. A compromise, agreement, or settlement between two or more parties.
Appeal to Moderation
This is an inaccurate paraphrase (rewording) of the opponent’s argument.
Strawman
This is when you prove a point by simply restating it in different words. Instead of providing evidence, you just use a paraphrase of your conclusion as your evidence.
Circular Reasoning
What is New Jersey?
Saying that the burden of proof lies not with the person making the claim, but with someone else to disprove it.
Burden of Proof
This argument depends on the trustworthiness of the source; however, this authority is not a specialist in an area that applies to the argument.
Appeal to Authority
The argument questions the integrity (character) of the opponent. The person suggests or hints that the opponent has a hidden (or personal) reason for proposing an argument (not based on principles or reason).
Appeal to Motive
Making a broad claim based on a sample size that is too small or unrepresentative.
Hasty Generalization
Beehive State
These phrases discourage critical thought and meaningful discussion about a given topic.
Thought Terminating Cliche
Reasoning that further investment is warranted because the resources already invested will be "lost" otherwise, regardless of the outcome.
Sunk Cost
Introducing an irrelevant topic into a discussion to divert attention from the original issue.
Red Herring
Using personal experience or an isolated example instead of a valid argument or compelling evidence.
Anecdotal Fallacy
Cowboy State
What is Wyoming?