2023年6月24日发(作者：)

Recognizing Valid and lnvalid Arguments

辨别哪些是有根据的论断，哪些是没根据的论断

When authors use logical reasoning in their passages, they are said to contain valid

arguments. These arguments are based upon facts and accurate details. Conversely,

when authors use illogical reasoning in their passages, they are said to contain invalid

arguments. Invalid arguments are based on some type of faulty reasoning, called

fallacies.

Recognizing Valid and lnvalid Arguments

Fallacies that Rely on Irrelevant Issues

and/or Emotional Appeals

1. Ad Hominem (argument to the person)

2. Ad Populum (argument to the people)

3. Bandwagon Appeal

4. Red Herring

1. Ad Hominem (argument to the person)

Authors use ad hominem when they shift the focus of an argument away from the

issues and towards the authors' opponent. Ad hominem arguments often contain

personal commentary and personal attacks.

Example: It is obvious that Merle has no business serving as a member of the child

welfare committee. He cannot even maintain his own household--his wife just left

him.

2. Ad Populum (argument to the people)

The ad populum fallacy occurs when authors evade the issues and appeal to the

emotions of the people-the reader in this case. The authors' appeal is made to

allegiances and beliefs that people hold dear.

Example: If you are a real American you will exercise your right to vote.

3. Bandwagon Appeal The bandwagon appeal appears when authors suggest that everyone agrees with it,

does it, or believes it. Rather than provide solid reasons to support claims, the author

merely suggests that since everyone else is in agreement it is valid support-BUT IT IS

NOT!

Example: I'm going to get that new CD recorder because everyone I know has it.

4. Red Herring

Authors sometime introduce irrelevant issues to distract the reader's attention away

from the real issues. This is the red herring fallacy. You can easily remember the "red

herring" fallacy if you remember how the term originated. During foxhunts, servants

would drag a smoked herring fish across the trail of the foxes. The fish scent would

divert the hunting dogs attention away from the foxes and lengthened the "thrill of the

chase" for the hunters. Likewise, when authors use red herring fallacy, they divert

your attention away from the real issues.

Example: It is wasteful to enact laws against drunk drivers when so many murders are

walking our streets.