Logical Fallacies

Begging the QuestionNick Eaton and Stephen Harmon

Paranormal activity is real because I have experienced what can only be described as paranormal activity.

Tim did not go to college; therefore, he is stupid

You have big eyebrows, you cannot be attractive

He says he is too busy; therefore, he doesn't like me and is avoiding me.

Offshore oil exploration is safe in the Canadian Arctic because precautions are taken to prevent accidents

Begging the Question Defined

Assuming something to be true that really needs proof.

Source:http://www.businessplexus.com/images/logical-fallacy.jpg

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Image for Begging the Question

I have a small face; therefore, everybody has a small face.

Source:http://futuresbeginning.com/sheldon-cooper-bazinga-meme-29.jpg Source:http://vasisdas.com/wp-content/uploads/

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Example in Contemporary Culture

This item is bigger; therefore, it is better.

Source:http://img5.tgdaily.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/original/stock/bigger_is_better.jpg

Source:http://oliverdemille.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/biger-isnt-always-better.jpg

Example in Contemporary Culture

Source:https://bldee13s.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/visual_arg.jpg

Everybody has it; therefore, everybody needs it

Source:https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1550954462/instagramIcon_400x400.png

Source:https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/1271084_10152203108461729_809245696_o.png?dl=1

What’s the Significance?Through diligent analysis, one finds that the examples presented are a perfect fit for the fallacy “Begging the Question.” The fallacy “Everybody has it; therefore, everybody needs it” is an example. Many teens are under the impression that phones are essential to living; without a phone, one could not function properly. This fallacy example is a representation of peer pressure, showing that teens are influenced by other teens. Having a phone is not essential due to the fact that no one has proven it to be true; therefore, this example is fallacious. The fallacy “This item is bigger; therefore, it is better” is equally fallacious. Dimes are smaller than nickels, but a dime is worth more than a nickel; consequently, this example is proven illogical. In today’s society, a similar phrase is highly prevalent, thus being “Bigger is better.” Although at times this phrase may be true, in specific situations it is not. For example, when food is presented in large quantities it is much more enticing than in smaller amounts. Likewise, a 48 in flat screen T.V. is much more persuasive than a small 10 in television. Both fallacies appear, at a great extent, tempting; while when looked at closely they appear only as words jumbled up to evoke a domineering mood. Ultimately, they lead their audience to be persuaded while providing a fodder for those who would disagree.

One More...

If Snoop Dogg is the greatest rapper in the world, and if he is considered a normal person, then by classifying myself as a normal person, I too, am the greatest rapper in the world.