Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Fallacies are errors in reasoning or flawed arguments that may appear logical but are actually misleading or invalid. They often rely on emotional manipulation, faulty assumptions, or irrelevant information.
Related terms
Straw Man Fallacy: The straw man fallacy occurs when someone misrepresents their opponent's position by exaggerating it or creating a weaker version of it. This makes it easier for them to attack and refute.
Ad Hominem Fallacy: The ad hominem fallacy involves attacking the person making an argument instead of addressing their actual points. It attempts to discredit the person rather than engaging with their ideas.
False Cause Fallacy: The false cause fallacy assumes causation based on correlation alone without considering other possible factors. It mistakenly concludes that one event caused another without sufficient evidence.