Work in groups of four and try to detect problems in the following examples. Then match the problems with the stated fallacies.
A fallacy is, very generally, an error in reasoning. This differs from a factual error, which is simply being wrong about the facts. To be more specific, a fallacy is an“argument” in which the premises given for the conclusion do not provide the needed degree of support.
1) Detect problems from the following arguments.
Example I:
Ferris: So, who are you going to vote for?
Libard: Well, I was thinking about voting for Jane, since she is a woman and there has never been a woman chair here. But, I think that Steve will do an excellent job. He has a lot of clout in the university and he is a decent person.
Ferris: You know, Wayne and Bill are supporting him. They really like the idea of having Steve as the new chair. I never thought I’d see you and those two pigs on the same side.
Libard: Well, maybe it is time that we have a woman as chair.
Example II:
Jane: I’ve been thinking about getting a computer. I’m really tired of having to wait in the library to write my papers.
Bill: What sort of computer do you want to get?
Jane: Well, it has to be easy to use, have a low price and have decent processing power. I’ve been thinking about getting a Kiwi Fruit 2200. I read in that consumer magazine that they have been found to be very reliable in six independent industry studies.
Bill: I wouldn’t get the Kiwi Fruit. A friend of mine bought one a month ago to finish his master’s thesis. He was halfway through it when smoke started pouring out of the CPU. He didn’t get his thesis done on time and he lost his financial aid. Now he’s working over at the Gut Boy Burger Warehouse.
Jane: I guess I won’t go with the Kiwi!
Example III:
Bill: Jill and I both support having prayer in public schools.
Jill: Hey, I never said that!
Bill: You’re not an atheist. Are you, Jill?