Logical Errors

1. Logical Errors What they are and how to fix them

2. Definition: Trying to prove a statement by repeating it in different words • Fix: Give specific reasons to prove the statement Examples: • Too much sugar is bad for children because it isn’t good for them. • Too much sugar is bad for children because it rots their teeth. Circular Reasoning

3. Definition: Making a statement that is too broad to prove • Fix: Avoid using words like always, everyone, never, and use words like many, most of the time, etc. Examples • Everyone loves Christmas. • Many people love Christmas. Overgeneralization

4. Definition: Claiming that there is only one possible solution when there are many • Fix: Acknowledge different solutions and explain them Examples • Either we raise taxes or the government will shut down. • Government must take many steps to raise revenue and curb spending or it will shut down. Either/Or Fallacy

5. Definition: Assuming that because one event follows another, the second event is caused by the first • Fix: Identify all possible causes and explain them Examples • Too many violent video games in our society cause violence. • Movies, video games, lack of values, and lack of adult supervision can all contribute to violence in society. Cause-and-Effect Fallacy