Monday, February 8

• Fallacies Notes

• PAL BEG last article in packet.

• Start PAL BEG for another article in the packet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omnOhzOyAIo

Logical Fallacies

• Logic = something that makes sense

• Fallacy = an argument that sounds true but isn’t necessarily the truth Strategies and techniques used to persuade readers and viewers.

•Also know as: “faulty logic of reasoning”

The Bandwagon

• “Everyone’s doing it!”

• Example: Everyone wears “tommy” perfume, you should too!

Broad Generalization

• Making a general statement with too little evidence.

• Example: All teenagers spend too much time watching TV.

Oversimplification

• Making a complex issue seem really simple.

• Example: To be successful in life, you simply need a nice smile.

Testimonial/Transfer-Association

• Using the opinion of someone who is not an expert or showing a famous person who “uses” the product.

• Example: Eva Longoria for beauty products.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5496957000044872557#

Appeal to Emotion

• Playing on emotions to convince .

• Common emotions:

fear, pity, ignorance,

etc.

• Example: Without your help, this child will go hungry.

Circular Thinking

• Proving your point by saying it again.

• Example: Students should have a shorter school day so that they don’t have to be in school for as long.

Either Or Thinking

• Showing only two choices: this or that.

• Example: America--Love it or leave it.

Name-Calling

• Labels or names given to viewers, listeners, and/or readers.

• Example: Any idiot can see that using this calling plan will save you money.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H02iwWCrXew

Card-Stacking

• Stacking your points to persuade viewers, listeners, and/or readers without offering the other side.

• Example: No money down, no interest, and no payments until Aug, 2007!

Plain Folks

• Writing, speaking, or advertising geared towards the “average Joe,” everyday person.

• Example: Everyday people like you use our toothpaste.

False Cause and Effect

• Assuming that because one event happens after another, the first event caused the second event.

• Example: “I never had allergies problems after I switched to hardwood floors.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY4Dp-WZwr8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rb_5Ce30ti4