Exploring Common Logical Fallacies

The video tutorial explains logical fallacies in academic writing, highlighting five common types: hasty generalization, non sequitur, slippery slope, bandwagon, and red herring. Each fallacy is defined and illustrated with examples, emphasizing the importance of evidence in supporting claims. The tutorial concludes with a reminder to recognize and avoid these fallacies in arguments, offering additional resources for further learning.

What is a logical fallacy?

• A type of evidence

• An error in logic

• A true statement

• A convincing argument

Why is it important to understand logical fallacies?

• To make your arguments longer

• To use them effectively

• To confuse others

• To avoid them in your own arguments

What is an example of a hasty generalization?

• Assuming all UT students hate Aggies based on a few people

• Buying a PiPhone because everyone else has one

• Believing a doctor can cure a sore throat

• Thinking missing a party will end all friendships

What does 'non sequitur' mean?

• It is convincing

• It does not follow

• It follows

• It is logical

Why is the argument 'Valerie is a doctor, so she must be able to cure my sore throat' a non sequitur?

• Because sore throats cannot be cured

• Because Valerie is not available

• Because Valerie is not a real doctor

• Because not all doctors are medical doctors

What is a slippery slope argument?

• An argument that follows logically

• An argument that predicts extreme consequences without evidence

• An argument that uses social pressure

• An argument that changes the subject

What is an example of a bandwagon fallacy?

• Believing all UT students hate Aggies

• Buying a PiPhone because everyone else has one

• Assuming missing a party will end all friendships

• Thinking a doctor can cure a sore throat

What is a red herring fallacy?

• An argument that follows logically

• An argument that uses social pressure

• An argument that introduces an irrelevant topic

• An argument that predicts extreme consequences

Why is the comment about the budget in a school board meeting an example of a red herring?

• Because it is relevant to the teaching styles

• Because it draws attention away from the main issue

• Because it is a logical argument

• Because it supports the main issue

Where can you find more information on logical fallacies?

• In the textbook

• On the website writingcenter.tamu.edu

• In the school library

• In the video tutorial