Find the Bias
What is the definition of Bias?
Prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered to be unfair.
What is the Definition of Anecdotal Evidence?
Information based on personal stories, individual experiences, or isolated examples, rather than systematic research or scientific data.
What is the definition of Cherry-Picking Evidence?
A logical fallacy and deceptive tactic where someone selectively presents only the data or facts that support their desired conclusion, while deliberately ignoring or downplaying significant contradictory evidence, leading to a biased and incomplete picture
How does Glawell bias the reader in this quote?
“Jewish at a time when Jews were heavily discriminated against; that he grew up in the Depression turn, out unexpectedly, to have been advantages” (Gladwell 120).
The quote emphasizes Joe Flom as being Jewish "during a time of heavy discrimination" and growing up during the Great Depression. By selecting these ethnic and historical factors, Gladwell frames the person’s life through social disadvantage tied to ethnicity and historical hardship.
Why is the use of Anecdotal Evidence important?
The use of anecdotal evidence is important because it helps make ideas relatable, understandable, and engaging.
How does Cherry-Picking evidence Weaken/Strengthen his Argument?
Cherry-picking strengthens Gladwell’s argument rhetorically, but weakens it analytically.
What is the Bias of Malcom Gladwell?
Gladwell is biased toward storytelling, intuitive explanations that support his larger message that success is shaped more by context and opportunity than by individual ability alone.
Why does Gladwell keep using Anecdotal Evidence?
Gladwell uses anecdotal evidence because it is persuasive and engaging.
What is the Effectiveness of Cherry-picking evidence on the Reader?
Cherry-picking evidence is very effective at persuasion, but less effective for building trust and accuracy.