When the writer presents an arguable point as a fact that supports the argument.
Begging the Question (Circular Logic)
The conclusion does not logically follow the explanation.
Non Sequitur Argument
Arguments which assume a faulty causal relationship.
Post Hoc (Ergo Propter Hoc)
An attempt to relate ideas or situations that are not similar.
Faulty Analogies
Basing an argument on insufficient evidence.
Hasty Generalizations
Having little relevance to the argument at hand.
Red Herring
Exploiting feelings of sympathy to override or ignore logical considerations.
Appeal to Pity/Emotion
Making use of a word’s multiple meanings and changes the meanings mid-argument without telling the audience
Equivocation
Refuting an oversimplified opposition/Picking only the opposition’s weakest or most insignificant point to refute.
Opposing a Straw Man
The assumption of a conclusion or fact based primarily on lack of evidence to the contrary.
Appeal to Ignorance
Reducing complex issues to black and white choices.
Either-Or Argument (Black or White)
Suggesting one step will eventually lead to more, inevitable negative steps.
Slippery Slope
Trying to convince readers everyone else believes something, so the reader should also.
Bandwagon Appeal
An authority in one field may know nothing of another field.
False Authority
Attempting to refute the claims of the opposition by bringing the opposition’s character into question.
Ad Hominem (Poisoning the Well)
