Professional Documents
Culture Documents
1. Over-generalization
Drawing too wide a conclusion from the given facts Example:
All kids cause trouble. Timmy is a kid. Therefore, Timmy causes trouble.
2. Arguing in Circles
Def: Supporting an opinion not with evidence but with the same opinion, slightly disguised (restating the argument in different words). Using the word youre defining in the definition is a classic example. Example: Education is important for kids, so they should get an education. Everybody likes ice cream because it is liked by all. Belligerently means in a belligerent way.
Fix it by making sure you are giving support, not just repeating the idea. Never use the word youre defining in the definition.
Fix this by remembering that the world is a complicated place and that on most issues there are many alternatives.
4. Red Herring
Def. Presenting an irrelevant topic to divert attention away from the original issue. Also known as Ad hominem: getting personal as you discredit someone. Examples:
What do you know? Youre just a kid. I got an F. Mr. X hates me.
Fix this by staying focused on the topic; watch out for those who dont.
Fix this by examining the relationship between ideas. Make sure the facts precede the theory and the reasons precede and cause the belief.
8. Misleading Comparison
Def. Mistakenly believing that two situations or people can be compared. Examples:
Jill looks good in red. Ill buy red pants, too. Forcing students to read books is like herding cattle to slaughter. You gave him extra time on the test, so I should get extra time too. Saddam Hussien is Hitler.
Fix this by remembering that every person and situation has different circumstances.
9. Bandwagon
Def. Lots of people do this, so you should, too. Examples:
Adults are smoking, so it is ok to do so. The American people do not stand for . . .