Logical Fallacies What are they Common errors in

Logical Fallacies

What are they? • Common errors in reasoning that will undermind your argument. Typically, fallacies lack evidence that supports the c laim.

There a lot more where these came from… COMMON FALLACIES

Slippery Slope • If we ban Factory Farming, then we will be condemning millions of Americans to die of starvation. – While this statement might not be false, it is still fallacious, since the conclusion based on the premise that if A happens, then eventually through a series of small steps, through B, C, . . . , X, Y, Z will happen, too, basically equating A and Z.

Hasty Generalization • Organic Farming is more sustainable because the animals are treated better. – This is a conclusion based on insufficient or biased evidence. In other words, you are rushing to a conclusion before you have all the relevant fact.

Genetic Fallacy • The FDA must be corrupt since it is ran by the former CEO of Tyson Industries. – As with others, this statement might be true, but it is still fallacious given that the conclusion is based on an argument that the origins of a person, idea, institute, or theory determine its character, nature, or worth. Simply working for the meat industry doesn’t make you evil.

Circular Argument • Factory Farming is environmentally friendly because it leaves a small carbon footprint. – This restates the argument rather than proves it.

Either/or • We can either put an end to factory farming, or destroy the earth. – Similar to slippery slope, this over simplifies the argument by reducing it to two sides.

Ad hominem • Factory Farming is not the most effective because the big corporations that run them are only concerned about profit. – Again, could be true. Still, not supported with real facts. Instead, the attack is on people, instead of the issue at hand, i. e. what could be a more effective use of space/money/etc. ?

Ad populum • Factory Farming is the most effective because cheap food is an American right. – This appeals to the emotionality of a concept, not to the real issue. Sure, cheap food is essential to some, but the check stand price of food belies its larger cost.

Red Herring • Granted, some of the practices of factory farming are unsavory, but what about the people who need to support their families? – Still, no speaking to the issues of health. Instead, the emotional appeal regarding jobs diverts the reader’s attention away from the real issue at hand.

Straw Man • People who support factory farming do not care about the health of themselves or others. – As with others, this oversimplifies. The claim attributes a motive to the oppositions view point that is more than likely not true.