Logic Arguments #2

Logic fallacies #2

https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/common-logical-fallacies

https://www.txstate.edu/philosophy/resources/fallacy-definitions/

THE APPEAL TO AUTHORITY FALLACY

Actually, appealing to authority is generally a good thing.  In this time of the pandemic, appealing to the CDC - Center for Disease Control - is generally a good thing.

But, it depends on the authority.  Governors have announced that schools will be open for fall classes with students in seats.  That might be within the rights of a governor to say that, but what do school officials say?  (in that school officials might have better authority than a governor on education issues).

Person A:  So, which internet browser is the best?

Person B: (An executive at Google).  “Chrome is definitely the best browser and it can filter out potential spam sites and loads faster.”

While person B is an authority on internet browsers, he/she also has a bias based on his experience. 

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Some times we use celebrities as authorities:

Brad Pitt was seen wearing Designer Bob's sunglasses, so they must be the best sunglasses to wear.

The assumption that because Brad Pitt is such a star, he must really know all about sunglasses!!

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My family doctor in Madison South Dakota says “I must have my leg amputated”.

That is why in some medical situations it is advised to get a second opinion. (Like a specialist in diseases of the leg at Mayo Clinic says there are options)

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Recently the President has given his views on masks and handling COVID. Yes, he is the highest authority in the United States, but he is not an authority on health issues.

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THE FALSE DILEMMA FALLACY

Changing a complex situation into two opposite viewpoints.

Let’s do a political one:

Representative A: Health care needs fixing.  We have a great healthcare system, but the expenses are skyrocketing.  I have introduced a bill to help control costs.

Representative B: We have only two alternatives - approve representative’s A excessive bailout or reject it.

Seemingly there is no way that compromise can be discussed. Can some common ground be found?

Some additional example:

American - love it or leave it!!

Fallacy - a false dilemma - maybe you like most of what American stands for, but don’t like the racism, the earnings differences between men and women, or the strident views of either political parties.  Can’t we find some way to compromise - no just love or leave?

Since there is nothing good on TV tonight, I will just have to get drunk.

One or the other - television or getting drunk?  Could you read or exercise or learn a new skill (like crochet or piano playing) and not watch television and not getting drunk?

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And, somewhat related - sometimes educators put “Always true” or “Always False” type statements. and sometimes you have to read between the lines.  “All dogs have four legs”.  Generally, I’d say “yes” - but I know of a few dogs that had an accident or birth defect and only have three legs.  They are rare but they exist.

Likewise, all people have five fingers on their right hand - and there are a few with more than five natural fingers (Polydactyly) and a few will have less than five natural fingers (oligodactyly).

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Some fallacies are tricky - more tomorrow!!!

Hugs - and LOVE WINS!!

Karen