In this essay, your task is to identify a piece of argumentation from a public debate, news article, social media post, or any other relevant source that exhibits ‘bad’ reasoning. Analyze and critique this argument using fallacy vocabulary and logical reasoning principles.
I will provide you with a few resources of faulty claims, which you are welcome to use and expand upon, unless you find others that are equally accessible and interesting. You must receive permission to use text choices prior to writing the essay.
You will need to clearly present the argument you’ve chosen, providing context and background information if necessary. Then, identify at least three the specific fallacies or logical errors present in the argument and how each fallacy undermines the strength and validity of the argument. Utilize terminology from the study of logical fallacies to articulate the flaws you observe. As a whole, you must also reference the basis of the argumentation, including one instance of induction/deduction. You will be required to use tangible examples of flaws or logic with quotes from the text(s).
Furthermore, you may explore potential ways this argument could be strengthened or corrected to improve its logical coherence and persuasive power. Finally, reflect on the broader significance of identifying and critiquing fallacious reasoning in public discourse, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and discernment in navigating information in today’s digital age.
Requirements:
- You will apply at least 3 of the fallacy terms in your essay. You must define each fallacy in the paper, much like a report. You will cite the source from which you get your definition.
- I suggest using only our fallacy word bank from IEP linked hereLinks to an external site.
- No other research is necessary.
- You must analyze the argument’s basis with induction or deduction
- You must quote from your found source. How many times is up to you.
- Your thesis/essay must reflect the scope of the assignment. WARNING: You are not arguing if you AGREE with the rhetorician – you are analyzing and critiquing their methods.
- You must include a works cited and in text citations in MLA format.
- You must have a New Author’s Note with each draft. You must workshop.