Logical Fallacies

Essay by msvs6771University, Bachelor's May 2007

download word file, 4 pages 3.3

A fallacy is defined as a mistake whereas a logical fallacy is defined as a mistake in reasoning. (Logical Fallacy, 2006) As illustrated in the article from fallacyfiles.com, a fallacy can be easily mistaken for two types, a type of mistaken reasoning or a decision made based upon bad reasoning. In order to determine a fallacy, the reasoning must be somewhat deceptive and common enough for people to recognize and understand, therefore fooling some people some of the time. In order to understand how to reason correctly, you must realize and understand how to correctly identify, recognize, comprehend and defend your logic. Studying formal logic and the rules of correct reasoning is like having a road map that shows how to get from point A to point B. (Logical Fallacy, 2006) In our text, we have studied many types of logical fallacies of which I will speak of three in this paper.

Inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning and Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc or after this, therefore, because of this.

Using inductive reasoning usually means that your decisions are based on facts or logic gained from specific ideas or happenings to general ones, usually based upon personal experiences or observations. An example could go something like this, “Every time I kick a ball up, it comes back down, so the next time I kick a ball up, it will come down.” This type of reasoning begins with the specific, a ball being kicked and moves to the general of whenever a similar event occurs, it will have a similar result. In order to come to a solid conclusion, inductive reasoning involves a step approach to a solution based on your observations, participation and your own assessments. First, information and data must be collected and organized. Second, from...