Logical Fallacies Flashcards

A senator argues: 'We must either pass this bill immediately or our economy will collapse.' What fallacy is this?

Answer: False dilemma

False dilemma (false dichotomy) presents only two options when more alternatives actually exist.

"Everyone on social media is sharing this article, so it must be true." This is an example of:

Answer: Bandwagon fallacy

The bandwagon fallacy assumes something is true or correct because many people believe or do it.

Which best describes the 'tu quoque' fallacy?

Answer: Dismissing a claim because the person making it also violates it

Tu quoque ('you also') deflects criticism by pointing out the critic's own similar behavior rather than addressing the argument.

A scientist's climate research is dismissed because she once worked for an oil company. Which fallacy is most clearly illustrated?

Answer: Genetic fallacy

The genetic fallacy judges an argument's validity based on its origin or source rather than its content.

"We shouldn't trust John's opinion on immigration policy because he isn't a citizen." This commits which fallacy?

Answer: Ad hominem (circumstantial)

Circumstantial ad hominem dismisses an argument based on the arguer's personal circumstances rather than the argument's merit.

"No one has proven that ghosts don't exist, so ghosts must be real." This illustrates:

Answer: Appeal to ignorance

Appeal to ignorance (argumentum ad ignorantiam) treats the absence of disproof as proof of a claim.

A politician reframes an opponent's nuanced immigration plan as 'open borders for criminals.' This is best classified as:

Answer: Straw man

The straw man fallacy misrepresents an opponent's position to make it easier to attack.