Please read the Methods of Persuasive Chapter on logical fallacies and watch the attached link. Choose three fallacies that you have heard used before. Write a paragraph each one and give an example of how it was used. Define the fallacy and give an example for each. Each paragraph should be five sentences or more.
Fallacy: Ad Hominem
The ad hominem fallacy occurs when someone attacks the person making an argument rather than focusing on the argument itself. It is a form of personal attack that tries to discredit the opponent's character rather than engaging with their ideas. For instance, during a political debate, if Candidate A focuses on attacking Candidate B's personal life or appearance rather than addressing their policy proposals, it would be an example of an ad hominem fallacy. By resorting to personal attacks, the person employing this fallacy attempts to divert attention from the actual arguments being made.
Fallacy: False Cause
The false cause fallacy, also known as post hoc ergo propter hoc (after this, therefore because of this), involves assuming a causal relationship between two events simply because they occur in succession. In other words, it suggests that just because one event follows another, the first event must be the cause of the second. An example of this fallacy is when a sports team wins a game while a particular player is wearing their lucky socks. Assuming that the socks are responsible for the victory is fallacious reasoning because there is no proven cause-and-effect relationship.
Fallacy: Straw Man
The straw man fallacy occurs when someone misrepresents or distorts an opponent's argument, making it easier to attack or refute. Instead of addressing the real argument presented, the person substitutes it with a distorted or weaker version and then proceeds to attack that weaker version as if it were the original argument. For instance, if a person argues in favor of stricter gun control laws, and their opponent responds by saying, "So you think everyone should be completely disarmed and we should have no way to protect ourselves?" they are building a straw man. The person arguing for gun control did not propose complete disarmament, but by exaggerating their argument, their opponent makes it easier to attack.
It is crucial to recognize these fallacies as they can undermine the validity of an argument and hinder productive discussions. Ad hominem, false cause, and straw man fallacies are commonly used to divert attention, misrepresent arguments, or attack opponents instead of engaging with the substance of the discussion. Being aware of these fallacies helps us assess the strength of arguments and encourages us to engage in more rational and logical discourse.