My assignment is to find fallacies in a newspaper editorial and a opinion magazine. I am having trouble understanding what a fallacy is. I know that it is a false or misleading argument. I am not understanding how to detect fallacy. Everything I read doesn't have any misleading information.
You must read or listen VERY closely. Almost all newspapers, magazines, and TV anchor people become VERY agitated if they are accused of biased reporting. Many will devote editorials as responses to such accusations and almost all go to great lengths to convince the public that they are not biased. I have read many stories, however, in which the bias shows through. Personally, I think some of it is intentional.
Wikkipedia is on the top of the list when I google Fallacy, they are all listed there.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=fallacy&btnG=Google+Search
Here's what Ken is referring to.
Do you go to Axia I have the same assignment and I am completely lost as well I can memorize the material but I cannot understand it enough to point it out!!!
What a coincidence I go to Axia and yep u guessed it I have the same assignment
OMG.....I got to Axia too and have the same assignment. made a 100 on the review quizzes and still do not know what this instructor wants on this assignment!
I thought I was the only one!!! I still don't get it either!! This assignment is mind boggling!!! Ahhhhh
Here we go.. I too go to Axia and also made a 100 on my quizzes. But it seems that the more work I do on the subject the harder it is getting.
I too am an "Axian"...haha... That's how I feel with this homework assignment anyway. I will look further for more help since we all seem to be stuck!
How funny I am there to Axia and Im doing the same assignment. Did anyone have any luck?
AHAHAH, I am in the same classes too, I have this assignment this week. hopefully I won't get stuck on it.
Lol...Wow that is really funny how all the Axia's have the same idea to come here for this certin assignment :) I also go there, and I am doing the same assignment. I guess no body has an answer...hmmm I will continue my search!
I have been trying to do this assignment all week, I do not understand exactly what it is that we are supposed to find. How does one know if something is a fallacicy?
Damn! I been pulling my hair out all week on this assignment and I go to Axia also...I still don't get this...
I understand that you're having trouble understanding what a fallacy is and how to detect it in newspaper editorials and opinion magazines. Let me explain it to you.
A fallacy is a mistake in reasoning or an argument that is logically flawed. It is a type of error that occurs when there is a lack of logical validity or relevance in the argument being made. Fallacies can be intentional or unintentional, but they ultimately undermine the credibility and persuasiveness of the argument.
To detect fallacies, you need to closely examine the arguments presented in the newspaper editorial and opinion magazine. Look out for any logical inconsistencies, misleading information, or flawed reasoning. Here are a few common types of fallacies to watch for:
1. Ad Hominem: This fallacy occurs when someone attacks the person making the argument instead of addressing the argument itself. Look for personal attacks or insults instead of addressing the actual issue.
2. Straw Man: In this fallacy, someone misrepresents the argument they are opposing by exaggerating or distorting it. Watch for arguments that misrepresent the opposing viewpoint in order to make it easier to attack.
3. False Cause: This fallacy assumes that one event caused another without sufficient evidence. Look for arguments that establish a cause-and-effect relationship without proper supporting evidence.
4. Appeal to Authority: This fallacy relies on the credibility or reputation of a person or source rather than the actual evidence or logic of the argument. Watch for arguments that use a famous or respected figure as a way to validate their claim without providing substantive evidence.
5. Slippery Slope: This fallacy assumes that a minor action will inevitably lead to a catastrophic outcome without sufficient evidence of the causal relationship. Look for arguments that make extreme predictions or consequences based on trivial actions.
These are just a few examples of fallacies, and there are many more. To identify them, carefully analyze the arguments presented, consider the logical coherence of the claims, and evaluate the evidence and reasoning used. Remember, not all arguments will contain fallacies, so if you find that everything you read does not have any misleading information, it could be a sign that the arguments are sound.
You can also refer to reliable sources, such as the one you mentioned, Wikipedia, to gain a deeper understanding of different types of fallacies. Good luck with your assignment!