Logical Fallacies

Front

Also known as bandwagon fallacy, it appeals to popularity of a practice as a way to persuade.

Back

ad populum

Answer explanation

When you think bandwagon or ad populum, think popular. Look at the word. They try to persuade you by convincing you it is popular.

Front

Tries to distract from the argument by avoiding the key issues or ignoring the opposing view

Back

red herring

Answer explanation

The key word is distract-throwing something into the conversation that is not relevant. Think about a fish being thrown-that would distract.

Front

States that a casual chain of events will result in an unlikely or extreme outcome.

Back

slippery slope

Answer explanation

Think about a slippery slope as an outcome (result) you would not want...

Front

Uses the conclusion as the proof that the argument has been proven.

Back

circular reasoning

Answer explanation

A circle goes around and around and around. Circular reasoning never makes a key point. It just wants you to think that it has...

Front

A reply or conclusion that follows no kind of order.

Back

non sequitur

Answer explanation

Sequitur makes me think of sequence. Non sequitur follows no logical order or sequence. Just leaves you questioning.

Front

A comparison that incorrectly connects two things based on other shared characteristics.

Back

false analogy

Answer explanation

An analogy is a comparison of two things.

Front

Oversimplified explanation of and attack on the viewpoint of another OR the misrepresentation of the viewpoint of another.

Back

strawman

Answer explanation

That scarecrow was considered to have a simple mind.

Front

An attack on someone's character rather than using logic to make an argument.

Back

ad hominem

Answer explanation

Character usually refers to a human. Hominem comes from the Latin for man.

Front

General statement or overgeneralized conclusion that is made without enough (if any) evidence.

Back

hasty generalization

Answer explanation

General-generalization

You should be hasty to believe something without evidence to back it up.

Front

What type of fallacy is used in the statement: "My political opponent is a crook! He doesn't even tip his waiters - shameful!"?

Back

ad hominem