Definitional Retreat: A Evasive Tactic In the realm of writing and argument, a subtle yet effective tactic has been employed by many to avoid criticism or defeat: definitional retreat. This technique involves redefining key terms or concepts in an effort to change the conversation’s trajectory or avoid admitting error. What is Definitional Retreat? Definitional retreat […]
Fallacies: Ambiguous Middle Term Fallacy
The Ambiguous Middle Term Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone uses a syllogism (a three-part argument) with an ambiguous or unclear middle term, leading to false conclusions. What is a Syllogism? A syllogism is a form of reasoning that consists of three statements: For example: All humans (A) are mortal […]
Freedom vs Security: A Delicate Balance
In the pursuit of a safe and secure society, governments and institutions often find themselves at odds with individual freedoms. This tension between freedom and security has been a recurring theme throughout history, with some arguing that certain liberties must be sacrificed in order to ensure public safety. However, this notion is not without its […]
Fallacies: Equivocation Fallacy
The Equivocation Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone uses a word or phrase with multiple meanings in a way that creates confusion, misdirection, or false conclusions. Example: “Freedom is the most important thing in life. But if you’re in prison, you can’t be free to go wherever you want.” In […]
Fallacies: Double Counting
The Double Counting Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone counts two related events, items, or factors as separate entities, resulting in an incorrect total count or an exaggerated conclusion. Example: “A survey found that 80% of people prefer to shop online and 75% of people prefer to shop during sales. […]
Fallacies: The Divine Fallacy
The Divine Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone assumes that something must be good, true, or justified because it is attributed to a divine being or a higher power. This fallacy involves mistaking the source of an idea or belief for its validity or value. Example: “The Bible says that […]
Fallacies: Definist Fallacy
The Definist Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone assumes that because a term or concept can be defined, it must therefore have a clear and precise meaning. This fallacy involves mistaking definability for clarity or precision. Example: “Murder is defined as the premeditated killing of one human being by another. […]
Fallacies: Suppressed Correlative Fallacy
The Suppressed Correlative Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone presents a correlation between two events or variables, but ignores or downplays other correlated factors. This fallacy involves selectively presenting only one side of the relationship, while suppressing or ignoring other important correlations. Example: “Studies have shown that drinking moderate amounts […]
Fallacies: Continuum Fallacy
The Continuum Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone assumes that because there are no clear boundaries or distinctions between two extremes, one extreme must gradually blend into the other. This fallacy involves ignoring the possibility that there might be distinct categories or thresholds, even if they cannot be precisely defined. […]
Fallacies: Appeal to Moderation
The Argument to Moderation Fallacy is a type of logical error that occurs when someone assumes that a moderate or middle position between two extremes must be true, simply because it seems more reasonable or appealing. This fallacy involves ignoring the possibility that one extreme might be closer to the truth, or that there are […]