Fallacies Flashcard

Front

What is an appeal to emotion fallacy?

Back

A way of persuading people by making them feel strong emotions.

Front

Which of the following statements is an example of an appeal to emotion fallacy?
“If we don’t save the polar bears, they will disappear forever, and it will be heartbreaking for future generations.”
“Studies show that planting trees can help reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.”
“The cafeteria should serve more vegetables because they are healthier for students.”
“Adding a new library will help students read more books and improve their test scores.”

Back

“If we don’t save the polar bears, they will disappear forever, and it will be heartbreaking for future generations.”

Front

What evidence supports your choice for part A? Options: The statement uses facts and studies to explain why saving polar bears is important. The statement talks about how sad and upsetting it would be to lose polar bears but doesn’t give specific facts or evidence. The statement explains why polar bears are an important part of the environment. The statement describes how saving polar bears would help scientists learn more about their ecosystem.

Back

The statement talks about how sad and upsetting it would be to lose polar bears but doesn’t give specific facts or evidence.

Front

What is the main goal of using an appeal to emotion fallacy?

Back

To connect feelings to the argument instead of facts or evidence.

Front

A school committee is deciding whether to extend the lunch period by 15 minutes. During the meeting, several students and teachers share their opinions. Which of the following responses is NOT an appeal to emotion? Options: If we don't extend lunch, students will continue to feel overwhelmed, which will make them even more stressed than they already are. Extending lunch will give students more time to eat, leading to better focus in afternoon classes, as studies show that proper nutrition improves focus. Extending lunch will allow students to relax more, which will make the school feel like a more fun and welcoming place for everyone. If we don’t make this change, students will feel like their needs are being ignored, and they’ll never trust the school’s leadership again.

Back

Extending lunch will give students more time to eat, leading to better focus in afternoon classes, as studies show that proper nutrition improves focus.