Identifying Logical Fallacies

2.3 Discussion

2.3 Discussion

Objective:

practice identifying logical fallacies and assessing the logic of an argument

Instructions:

Choose ONE of the four exercises below and follow the instructions provided.

Review the earlier lesson on Fallacies.

AND

1. Complete Exercise 5.10 on pages 162-163 in Practical Argument. In the textbook, these are the instructions for the exercise: "Determine which of the following statements are logical arguments and which are fallacies. If the statement is not logical, identify the fallacy that best applies" (Practical Argument 162).

OR

2. Complete Exercise 5.11 on page 163-165 in Practical Argument. In the textbook, these are the instructions for the exercise: "Read the following essay [on pages 164-165], and identify as many logical fallacies in it as you can. Make sure you identify each fallacy by name and are able to explain the flaws in the writer's arguments" (Practical Argument 163).

OR

3. For those of you interested in exploring Logical Fallacies on your own, you could also earn Discussion Board Post points by completing this third exercise option. Identify a particularly famous logical fallacy in pop culture. Explore the Internet for ideas, post a link for your peers to follow, name the fallacy, and discuss it.

OR

4. Find an image that visually interprets a fallacy for your peers. Be sure to describe it using the definitions from our book. Here's an example:

This is a solid (and silly) example of the Ad Hominem (personal attack) logical fallacy, which occurs when someone verbally attacks the character and sometimes the motives of the opposition as a way to draw attention from the real issues being debated (PA 149).

Tip: Please use the logical fallacies examples from the Fallacies lesson to support your critical thinking and writing processes.

Due: Wednesday, Week 2Where do I post my work? Go to the Discussions Tab on the menu and post your response in the 2.3 Discussion topic thread