Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that undermine the validity of an argument. Recognising logical fallacies is essential for developing critical thinking, empowering you to objectively evaluate arguments and avoid being misled.
A July 2024 article in the BBC’s Future series sets out 7 logical fallacies you can train yourself to spot whenever you hear an argument being made.
When people are trying to persuade you, they sometimes reach for underhand tricks like the ‘appeal to ignorance’ or ‘whataboutism’ to seem more convincing. BBC Future
According to the article, there are 7 logical fallacies which can be categorised into errors of logic, which are formal fallacies, and the informal fallacies that involve the misuse of language and evidence. Whatever category the fallacy falls into, this will result in a faulty argument.
The logical fallacies are:
- Appeal to ignorance
- Ad hominem
- Slippery slope
- Strawman
- Appeal to authority
- False dichotomy
- Whataboutism
Further reading
- How to spot a bad argument - BBC Future
- Steven Novella, Critical Thinking and Science in your Life - Lecture 24. A Youtube lecture from “Your Deceptive Mind, A Scientific Guide to Critical Thinking Skills”.
- Steven Novella, Jay Novella & Bob Novella | The Skeptics’ Guide to the Future | Talks at Google - Youtube
- The Skeptic’s Guide to the Future, Novella - Goodreads