A fallacy is an error in reasoning (be sure to review chapter 4 in the textbook). An argument commits a fallacy when the reasons we offer do not support our conclusion. Understanding and being able to identify fallacies assists us in spotting fallacious arguments and keeps us from being easily mislead or deceived.
This assignment uses SafeAssign plagiarism detection software. Plagiarized papers will receive a grade of Zero with no chance to resubmit.
The following video presents eight distinct fallacies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXLTQi7vVsI
Present a 600 word essay describing a specific fallacy from the video and presenting at least two strategies for avoiding this fallacy.
- Define and describe the fallacy. For example, if you select the post hoc, you want to define the post hoc and discuss what occurs in the post hoc.
- Describe the error that is committed in the fallacy. In other words, what's wrong with the argument?
- Identify two strategies that will help you in avoiding this fallacy. You can choose strategies presented in the class or create your own strategies that you think will help you in avoiding this type of fallacy.
- APA format
- A title page
- One-inch margins
- 12-point font, double-spaced
- 600 Words
- A reference page
- Include at least two sources, and be sure to cite them in the body of the paper and include them on the reference page.
- Submit your assignment as a Word document.
Grading Rubric:
The following standards are numbered in order of importance for grading.
1.Essay demonstrates an understanding of the material: The student has correctly grasped a philosophical problem or question, has explained it accurately, and on the basis of a substantially correct interpretation of any texts involved. The chosen fallacy is clearly defined and an error that is committed in the fallacy is discussed. Key terms are used correctly. The essay shows evidence of the student's independent thought, and is written in his or her distinctive voice. Short (one sentence) quotations are used (comprising no more than 10% of the body of the paper), when appropriate, to support the writer's analysis, and an explanation is offered for each quotation. The use of block quotations will result in a severe point deduction.
60 points
2.Essay has clear and coherent argument: There is a clearly stated thesis, and support for this thesis in the body of the paper. Two strategies for avoiding the chosen fallacy are clearly discussed. Each paragraph contributes to this argument, and follows logically from the paragraph before it. The argument presented is persuasive. The insights of two other philosophers are incorporated into the analysis.
25 points
3.Essay fulfills assigned task: The essay addresses the entire assigned question or topic, elaborating on important ideas in satisfactory depth, but without bringing in anything extraneous or irrelevant. The introduction of the essay focuses and provides clarity for the paper. Important terms are clearly and accurately defined. Each paragraph conveys a coherent, organized thought. Short (one sentence) quotations are occasionally used, when appropriate, to support the writer's analysis, and an explanation is offered for each quotation. No more than 10% of paper is made up of direct quotes. No block quotations.
25 points
4.Essay obeys standards for good persuasive writing: the writer shows that he or she is comfortable using philosophical language, and the prose is clear, not awkward. The structure of the sentences reflects the relationships between/among the ideas discussed.
20 points
5.Essay is technically correct: The essay has been carefully and thoughtfully proofread. The argument is written in complete sentences, with punctuation that does not mislead the reader. There are no mistakes in spelling, grammar, word choice, and punctuation. APA format is used correctly, and the two sources are cited appropriately per APA format.