CSET Prep: Logical Fallacies
Post Hoc Ergo Propter (definition)
A fallacy that assumes an event to be teh consequence of an earlier event merely because it came after it
Slippery Slope (definition)
A fallacy that is built on the idea that a particluar action will lead to a series of events with negative results
Straw Man (definition)
An exaggeration or misrepresentation of an argument so that it is easier to refute
Bandwagon (example)
Caroline eats a well-rounded diet and exercises on a regular basis. However, all of her friends at work are starting a low-carb diet that consists mostly of protein shakes. Her officemate tells Caroline about their plan and how they're going to all keep each other accountable, so she should join in. Caroline decides this must be the healthy thing to do so she agrees to do this special diet along with everyone else.
Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc (example)
Every time that rooster crows, the sun comes up. That rooster must be very powerful and important!
Slippery Slope (example)
If we enact any kind of gun control laws, the next thing you know, we won't be allowed to have any guns at all. When that happens, we won't be able to defend ourselves against terrorist attacks, and when that happens terrorists will take over our country. Therefore, gun control laws will cause us to lose our country to terrorists.
Straw Man (example)
Person A: The children's winter concert at the school should include non-Christmas songs too. Person B: You won't be happy until Christmas songs are banned from being played on the radio!
Red Herring (example)
The crime in this city, has, in fact increased lately. However, let's consider that the weather has changed as well. Things change over time. Sometimes they are linked, sometimes they are not, but only time will tell.
Ad Hominem (definition)
The use of a personal attack on the person or persons associated with a certain argument rather than focusing on the actual argument itself
Red Herring (definition)
The use of an obervation or distraction to remove attention from the actual issue.
Ad Hominem (example)
Well, it's pretty obvious that your political party doesn't know how to be fiscally responsible, so I wouldn't expect you to be either.