NOTE: To change the image on this slide, select the picture and delete it. Then click the Pictures icon in the placeholder to insert your own image. INFORMAL FALLACIES B Chapter 2 #2

These fallacies focus on the structure of an argument and the ways that terms are used. Appeal to ignorance (two forms)  There is no evidence for the truth of p, so p is false.  There is no evidence for the falsehood of p, so p is true. Ignorance refers to the lack of evidence. There are unicorns. After all, no one has been able to prove that there are no unicorns.

Begging the Question / circular argument Inductive arguments work The argument work because… This, of course is an inductive argument Inductive arguments have worked in the past, so they will continue to work in the future Why? Because… Circular arguments occur when the thing that we are trying to prove is assumed to be the proof itself. (not the same when we say “that begs the question”)

Equivocation  Takes place when one word is used in two different ways, yet in such a way that presents the two meanings as the same. Nobody is perfect. As far as celebrity status is concerned, you are nobody. Therefore, you are perfect.

Amphiboly (not in text, but I like it…)  Similar to the idea of the equivocation, but instead of the “one term” having more than one meaning,  A phrase or sentence can be taken in more than one way. “Customers who think our waiters are rude should see the manager.”

Loaded term  When a term is used broadly or narrowly to drive a particular conclusion.  Terms are sometimes arbitrary & misleading sometimes holding negative connotations not originally present.  Country X requires our economic support. It is a Third World country, so it is our moral responsibility to give financial aid to the people living there.

Slippery Slope  Attacking a policy that leads to a chain of events that would lead to undesirable result.  To avoid the undesirable “end,” the first step ought not occur.  How deep will the screening process become? If you allow this kind of intrusion in your life, it will not be long before you are asked for your papers while on your way to the store for a quart of milk.