Logical Fallacies

Definition of a 'Fallacy'

A misconception resulting from flaw in reasoning, or a trick or illusion in thoughts that often succeeds in obfuscating facts/truth.

Fallacies marked by an * are more common.

Formal

A formal fallacy is defined as an error that can be seen within the argument's form. Every formal fallacy is a non sequitur (or, an argument where the conclusion does not follow from the premise.)

Bad Reason FallacyPropositional FallaciesQuantification FallaciesSyllogistic Fallacies

Informal

An informal fallacy refers to an argument whose proposed conclusion is not supported by the premises. This creates an unpersuasive or unsatisfying conclusion.

Ad Hominem*Ambiguity*Anecdotal*Appeal to Authority*Appeal to Emotion*Appeal to Nature*Appeal to RidiculeAppeal to TraditionArgument from RepetitionArgumentum ad PopulumBandwagon*Begging the Question*Burden of Proof*Circular Reasoning*Continuum FallacyEquivocation*Etymological Fallacy*Fallacy Fallacy*Fallacy of Composition and Division*Fallacy of Quoting Out of ContextFalse Cause & False Attribution*False Dilemma*Furtive FallacyGambler's Fallacy*Genetic Fallacy*Ignoratio ElenchiIncomplete ComparisonInflation of ConflictKettle LogicLoaded Question*Middle Ground*No True Scotsman*Personal Incredulity*Proof by VerbosityProving Too MuchRed Herring*ReificationRetrospective DeterminismShotgun ArgumentationSlippery Slope*Special Pleading*Strawman*Texas Sharpshooter*Tu Quoque*

What are Logical Fallacies?

Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning or argumentation that can undermine the validity of an argument. They are often used to mislead or distract from the truth, or to win an argument by appealing to emotions rather than reason. It's important to be aware of these fallacies in order to critically evaluate arguments and avoid being misled.

Books About Logical Fallacies

A few books to help you get a real handle on logical fallacies.

Logical Fallacy Monsters Buy On Amazon Logically Fallacious Buy On Amazon The Fallacy Detective Buy On Amazon The Art of the Argument Buy On Amazon Mastering Logical Fallacies Buy On Amazon The above book links to Amazon are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may get a commission from the sale.