Argument forms

Sunk Cost Fallacy: An Introduction Definition of Sunk Cost Fallacy The Sunk Cost Fallacy is a cognitive trap where individuals or organizations continue a behavior or endeavor primarily because of previously invested resources like time, money, or effort, rather than evaluating the current merits of the situation. This fallacy often makes people irrationally stick with […]

Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect Definition of the Dunning-Kruger Effect The Dunning-Kruger Effect is a cognitive bias where individuals with low expertise in a domain overestimate their own abilities. This phenomenon often leads people to believe they are more competent than they actually are. It arises because the lack of skill deprives a person of the

Understanding the Availability Heuristic Explanation of the Availability Heuristic The Availability Heuristic is a cognitive bias that influences our decision-making by relying on immediate examples that come to our mind. Despite its efficiency in allowing quick judgments, it can lead to errors because it often depends on the ease with which instances are recalled. This

Anchoring Bias: Understanding Its Influence Definition of Anchoring Bias The term Anchoring Bias refers to the cognitive effect that occurs when individuals rely heavily on an initial piece of information, known as the “anchor,” when making decisions. This psychological tendency can have a substantial effect on the choices people make, often leading them to overlook

Understanding Confirmation Bias Definition of Confirmation Bias Confirmation Bias is the tendency of individuals to favor information that aligns with their existing beliefs or values while dismissing evidence that contradicts them. This cognitive bias leads people to seek out, interpret, and remember information selectively. As a result, it distorts objective analysis and impedes balanced decision-making.

Introduction: Appeal to Nature Explanation of the Appeal to Nature Fallacy The Appeal to Nature fallacy is a logical misstep where people erroneously conclude that something is good or true solely because it is perceived as “natural.” Despite its widespread use, this fallacy is often based on simplified or romanticized notions of nature. During discussions

Tu Quoque: Understanding Its Role in Contemporary Debates Definition of Tu Quoque The term Tu Quoque refers to a type of logical fallacy where someone tries to discredit their opponent’s argument by accusing them of hypocrisy. Instead of addressing the argument’s validity, this fallacy shifts focus by highlighting inconsistencies in the opponent’s behavior. This rhetorical

Introduction to the Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy A. Defining the Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy The Texas Sharpshooter Fallacy is a logical fallacy that occurs when differences in data are ignored, and similarities are emphasized. This creates an inaccurate view that patterns exist, even though they might be purely random. The name originates from the humorous analogy of

Spotlight Fallacy: Understanding Its Roots and Impacts Definition of the Spotlight Fallacy The Spotlight Fallacy occurs when people assume that the coverage provided by the media or attention given to a particular issue exemplifies the norm, thereby skewing public perception. It is significant, especially in today’s information age, to grasp its full meaning and implications.

Understanding Special Pleading in News Definition of Special Pleading Special Pleading is a logical fallacy where a person applies standards, principles, or rules to others while exempting themselves or others without providing a valid rationale. It often involves introducing an exception to a generally accepted rule. Importance of Understanding Logical Fallacies in News Understanding logical