Identifying Logical Fallacies Flashcard

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What is a false dilemma?

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A false dilemma is a logical fallacy that presents only two options when, in fact, more options exist. It oversimplifies the argument by suggesting that one must choose between two extremes.

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Example of a false dilemma:

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"You either support the new policy, or you don't care about the environment."

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What is a straw man argument?

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A straw man argument is a logical fallacy that misrepresents an opponent's position to make it easier to attack or refute.

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Example of a straw man argument:

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"People who support space exploration just want to waste money on useless projects."

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What is a slippery slope argument?

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A slippery slope argument is a logical fallacy that suggests that a relatively small first step will inevitably lead to a chain of related events culminating in some significant impact.

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Example of a slippery slope argument:

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"If we allow students to use calculators, soon they won't be able to do basic math without them."

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What is an ad hominem attack?

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An ad hominem attack is a fallacy that involves attacking the character or motive of a person making an argument rather than addressing the argument itself.

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Example of an ad hominem attack:

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"You can't trust his opinion on climate change; he's not even a scientist."

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What is a hasty generalization?

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A hasty generalization is a fallacy in which a conclusion is drawn from an insufficient amount of evidence.

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Example of a hasty generalization:

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"My friend got sick after eating at that restaurant, so it must be unsafe for everyone."