Propaganda F - (Definitions)

To get off the subject. Begins to talk about something that has no connection to the topic.

• complex question

• appeal to ignorance

• diversion

• ad hominem

A speaker presents two or more points to support his point of view. The opponent knocks out one of the less important points, then claims that he disproved or knocked out your entire case.

• disproving a minor point

• diversion

• inconsequent argument

• victory by definition

Instead of attacking an idea, an opponent attacks a person, his/her past actions or reputation.

• complex question

• diversion

• attacking a straw man

• ad hominem

A statement is said to be true because it has not been proven false or is said to be false because it has not been proven true. It can not be verified, tested, or proved. It can not be disproved or contradicted either.

• ad hominem

• inconsequent argument

• victory by definition

• appeal to ignorance

A question that suggests an answer or places a person in a bad position no matter how he answers the question.

• leading question

• begging the question

• complex question

• diversion

A speaker asks several questions at the same time and then demands a yes or no answer or a single answer to multiple questions. It puts the other person in an unfair position since each question needs to be answered separately.

• leading question

• diversion

• complex question

• victory of definition

The speaker proves something, but not what he said he would prove.

• appeal to ignorance

• leading question

• disproving a minor point

• inconsequent argument

The opponent attacks an idea by restating the other persons opinion incorrectly or exaggerates the consequences that may follow the other persons position.

• attacking a straw man

• appeal to ignorance

• begging the question

• leading question

A position or statement is defined and carefully worded to make sure it is true. The speaker wants to make sure other cases won't apply, all negative cases will be ruled out, an no other evidence could be presented. In other words you can't win, so don't bother argue!

• leading question

• attacking the straw man

• victory by definition

• ad hominem

Involves assuming as true what has yet to be proved. This can be done by using terms that mean the same thing (synonymous terms) or by circular argument, where A is used to prove B and B is used to prove A.

• diversion

• complex question

• begging the question

• leading question