PHI MOD 5 CH5
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Keiser University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
2010
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
22
Uploaded by LieutenantSquirrelPerson970
PHI
Chapter 5
Relevance Fallacies
PRACTICE SCENARIOS FOR CHAPTER FIVE EACH OF THE CASES PRESENTED BELOW CONTAIN AT LEAST ONE OF THE FALLACIES DISCUSSED IN THIS CHAPTER. FOR EACH CASE, NAME AT LEAST ONE FALLACY IT CONTAINS AND EXPLAIN HOW THE PERSON WHO COMMITTED THE FALLACY MIGHT HAVE AVOIDED IT. THAT IS, EXPLAIN HOW THIS PERSON COULD HAVE MORE EFFECTIVELY DEALT WITH HIS OR HER SITUATION. 1.
Hilda's father was, from the very start, against Hilda's marriage to Martin, and now, even after 10 years of being married to Martin, he still often urges Hilda to divorce Martin. "Hilda," he says, "you're still young and attractive and very bright. Why don't you find yourself someone who will amount to something. That Martin is, and always has been, nothing but a lazy lump." The following discussion occurs between Martin and Hilda: Hilda: "Martin, you forgot to take the garbage out again." Martin: "Oh darn it. Well, there's still some room in one of the cans. I'll get it out for the next pick up. Sorry hon." Hilda: "This isn't the first time you did this. You know what I think? I think you're nothing but a lazy lump who will never amount to anything." Answer:
Parroting
In this scenario, Hilda is Parroting what her father has said about her husband. With this situation, Hilda shouldn’t have said those remarks to her husband. Instead, she should talk with her husband about his “laziness” and see if anything changes. She married her husband for a reason and although her father may be right about him, Hilda’s husband can always change for the better and her father should respect his daughter’s decision on their marriage and stop putting negative thoughts into Hilda’s head.
2.
Professor Atfield, a college English teacher, suspects that Jerry, one of his students, has plagiarized an assignment. In what follows, Mr. Atfield confronts Jerry on the matter:
Professor Atfield: "Jerry, this paper does not look like your work. It appears that it has been taken from another source although I admit that I haven't been able to pinpoint it. I believe, however, that it is not your paper." Jerry: "You can't prove that I lifted the paper. You said yourself that you didn't even find the book I copied from. So, I rest my case. I didn't do it and you have some nerve accusing me." Answer: Appeal to Ignorance Professor Atfield is using the appeal to ignorance fallacy by not being able to prove that Jerry has plagiarized his paper. In my opinion, it is possible
that Jerry doesn’t always do well on his assignments, so the Professor is skeptical about how well his paper is. There could be many reasons why his paper didn’t “look like his”. One reason could be that he genuinely got help from a tutor which enhanced his writing performance. Or he could have had someone else write his paper in their own words so it wouldn’t be found in a textbook or online. Either way, the Professor cannot prove that Jerry has copied his paper so accusing him would do no justice.
3.
Here is what one employer who runs a chain of grocery stores says just after he learns that one of his employees, who has worked for him at one of his stores for the past seven years, is gay: "I don't want that queer working for me anymore. He's out of here. " Answer: Sweeping Generalization
I believe this employer is using the sweeping generalization fallacy. Just
because his employee is gay, doesn’t mean he does not have the qualifications to work at that grocery store. The employer is ignoring his employee’s qualities and basing his decision off of the gay community which can be controversial to some people. The employer should realize that a good worker is someone who has skill and who is qualified to fit the job. Not based on your sexual preference. 4.
Becky has been divorced twice. Both of her husbands "played around." Brenda, who is Becky's close friend, has been married for six years. In the following discussion, Becky challenges Brenda's belief that her own husband has always been faithful to her: Brenda: "My husband would never cheat on me."
Becky: "I wouldn't be so sure about that. How do you know that he never played around with some other women? You can't prove that he didn't, can you?"
Brenda: "Now that you put it that way, I can see how naive I've been. And to think t
hat I trusted him all this time, that no good bum!" Answer: Appeal to Ignorance
This scenario is using the Appeal to Ignorance Fallacy. Brenda now believes that her husband has cheated on her because Becky says, “you can’t prove that he didn’t…”. Because she cannot prove that her husband has cheated on her, therefore, it must be true because Becky’s husband has done it to her. In this case, Brenda shouldn’t compare her marriage to Becky’s marriage because if Brenda never suspected her husband to have cheated on her before, it is unlikely that he has. *5.
Sandy is a 20-year-old college sophomore. Here is a discussion she has with one of her professors: Sandy: I'm really pretty stupid. I'll be lucky if I get a "C" in your class. I know it." Professor: "Why are you telling yourself that? Your class discussion is excellent, and your essays show a lot of promise. I think that you are underestimating yourself." Sandy: "Since I was a little girl, my parents have told me that I'm stupid. And they're my parents. They ought to know." Answer: Parroting
Sandy is Parroting what her parents told her which is that she is “stupid”. Because she has been told this her whole life, she believes it must be true. In this case, Sandy should not focus on what her parents have said to her and defeat the odds and prove her parents wrong that she is smart enough to pass her classes. Especially since her Professor is assuring her that she is in fact smart, she should take her professors advice and believe in
herself more.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
6.
Winona's son Tommy is three years old. A working mother, Winona is looking for a day care facility in which to place her son. After speaking with some other parents, she comes to a conclusion. Here is her thinking: Winona: "Several of the other parents I spoke to put their children in the Little Monkey Day Care Center. It must be good, then. I think I'll put Tommy in
there too." Answer: Jumping on the Bandwagon
Winona is Jumping on the Bandwagon by taking her son to the Little Monkey Daycare just because other parents have taken their children there too. Winona has done no research to see if it is actually a good place to enroll
her son. Therefore, Winona should look into the daycare to make sure the staff are qualified, talk with the head of the daycare and see what rating the daycare has before she “jumps on the bandwagon” without further research. *7.
Mort and his wife, Betty, have had a quarrel. The two are now not on speaking terms. Here is a discussion that Mort has with his older brother, Howard: Howard: "Look, why don't you just make up with her. You are just making it difficult for the both of you." Mort: "If I were you, Howard, I wouldn't go around giving other people advice about married life. You were divorced twice. How can you sit there and tell me how to run my marriage?" Answer: Personal Attack
Mort is personally attacking his brother Howard. Although Howard has had marriage problems in the past, Mort should respectfully take his brothers
advice because maybe Howard never made up with his ex’s and is trying to tell his brother to do the opposite of what he has done in the past.
8.
Sharry has the following conversation with her counselor: Sharry: "Last week my husband screamed at me just because I forgot to go grocery shopping. Can you imagine?" Counselor: "How did you handle that?"
Sharry: "Since it happened, I've given him the silent treatment. Whenever he talks to me, I just ignore him, like he's not even there." Answer: Two Wrongs Make a Right
Sharry is using the Two Wrongs Make a Right fallacy. In this scenario, Sharry is ignoring her husband because he has wronged her. So, she is in the
wrong as well. Instead, Sharry and her husband should talk with each other to settle the feud they have between one another. Although her husband was
in the wrong, two wrongs don’t make a right and someone has to be the “bigger person” in this case. If not, this could lead to bigger problems in their
marriage and potentially cause a divorce if they continue to fight and ignore one another.
9.
Karen, a high school sophomore enjoys and has exceptional aptitude for foreign languages, especially French. Her French teacher has, in fact, encouraged her to consider pursuing French in college after she graduates high school. However, here is what Karen tells her teacher: Karen: "My dad always tells me that I'm not really college material and that it
is more important anyway for my brother to go to college. I guess I'll just keep my old job as a bagger at the supermarket when I graduate or maybe I'll go to secretarial school or something." Answer: Misuse of Authority Since Karen’s father, someone of authority, has told her that she is not college material, she believes what he says. This is misuse of authority. Instead, she should continue to pursue foreign language and not let what her
father tells her affect her in the long run. 10.
The following discussion occurs between Lenore and her husband, Chuck: Lenore: "Dear, you've had that cough for over two weeks. Don't you think that you should see a doctor?" Chuck: "OK, I'll go. Who should I go to? I don't know any doctors." Lenore: "Why don't you call Dr. Preston. I heard she's real good."
Chuck: "I went to her once. She looks like a man. I can't take her serious. Do you know a doctor who knows their business?" Answer:
Sweeping Generalization Chuck is dismissing the Dr’s qualifications because of her physical appearance. Instead, he should focus on her credentials and worry more about his health and not the way she looks.
11.
Claudine has just gotten a new evening dress, which she models for her husband, Claude. Here is their discussion: Claudine: "Honey, how do I look in my new dress?" Claude: "I think it might look better if you lost ten pounds. Your backside sticks out too much in it. You remind me of a freight train." Claudine: "Thanks a lot. That's the last time I ask you for your opinion." Claude: "Look, you asked me a question and I gave you an honest answer. A good marriage is based on honesty and that's just what I was, honest. I told you just what I was thinking." Answer: Hairsplitting
Claude is hairsplitting this situation. He is not focusing on the new dress, rather focusing his attention on what is irrelevant, her weight. It was unnecessary for him to make that remark to her even if he was “just being honest”. Now, Claudine feels insecure and can lead to further complications in their marriage. Claude could have told her in a nicer way or even suggested that they both start exercising daily. He could even just simply tell
her that the dress is nice and later, mention they should both start exercising. 12.
"I'm sure I could do marriage counseling. After all, I've been married for twenty years." Answer: Misuse of Authority
This person thinks that because he/she has experience in marriage, means that they are qualified to be a marriage counselor. If this person is serious about wanting to be a counselor,
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
he/she should look into how to become a marriage counselor and proceed with further education to be certified. 13.
Most of Mr. Murtle's high school geometry class is having problems understanding the current subject matter. Here is a discussion between Mr. Murtle and one student, Jeff, who is speaking on behalf of most of the other students in the class: Jeff: "Mr. Murtle, can we spend more time reviewing this material before starting a new unit? Most of us really still don't know what's going on?" Mr. Murtle: "I'm sorry, but there are requirements to satisfy. I can't take the time to go over it again. I need to go on to other things so that I cover everything I'm supposed to cover." Answer: Hairsplitting
This scenario is using the Hairsplitting Fallacy. Mr. Murtle is ignoring the
students request to slow down so they can understand the material better and diverting it back to what is most important to him, covering everything he has to cover. In this case, Mr. Murtle is not necessarily wrong. He has a time frame to complete his teachings, but he also should take his students request into consideration. There is a possibility that if Mr. Murtle were to slow down his teaching, the students would understand the material faster and still cover everything that needs to be covered. *14.
In what follows, Terry, a 12 year old girl is trying to convince her father to allow her to see an R-rated movie: Father: "You cannot see that movie, and that's all there is to it. It is rated "R" and you are only twelve years old." Terry: "You treat me like such a baby. Why don't you ever trust me. Don't you even
care about my feelings?" [She starts to cry.]
Father: "OK, OK, stop that crying. You win. You can see the movie." Terry: "Thanks Dad. I love you. You're the greatest." Answer: Changing the Subject
This father is giving in and changing the subject, so he won't have to explain his reasonings or see his 12-year-old daughter cry. Instead, he should
suggest a different movie to see rather than allowing her to see the R rated movie. 15.
Susan recently separated from her husband, Alan, and has filed for a divorce. Alan, a crack addict, had spent almost all of the couple's savings on his drug habit. Whenever Susan asked Alan to get help, he simply denied he had any drug problem. Finally, Susan left him. On one occasion after their separation Alan visited Susan for purposes of asking her for money to buy drugs. Alan, at this visit, showed clear signs of withdrawal; he was poorly groomed and had not changed his clothes in weeks; he was in tears. Their discussion was as follows: Alan: "I lost everything--my job, the car, you. I have nothing left. Please Suzy baby; I'm still your husband. I need the money bad, baby. I'm in big trouble. Please help; please help me, Suzy; please." Susan: "OK, I'll give you what I have. How can I say no when you look so pathetic." Answer: Misuse of Pity Susan is using the Misuse of Pity Fallacy towards her recently separated husband. Susan is doing more damage by enabling Alan by giving him money knowing he is a crack addict. Instead, Susan should advise Alan to see a counselor about his addiction and move forward into a rehab for him
instead of pitying him and watching his life fall apart. 16.
Hubert, a freshman in high school, has a book report to write in English. His friend Jorge has recommended that he do it on "The Catcher in the Rye." Here is what he tells Jorge:
Hubert: "That book you recommended stunk. It had a boring red cover with no pictures and just the title and author written on it. So, I decided to choose a different book." Answer: Personal Attack
I believe that Hubert is personally attacking his friend Jorge because of the book he told him to read. Hubert could have had a different approach by telling his friend that book wasn’t for him. He did not have to attack Jorge for his recommendation. 17.
Jill is 17 years old. Recently her father was tried and found guilty of the sale of illegal drugs. Despite the conclusive evidence against him, Jill insists upon her father's innocence. The following is a discussion between Jill and her older brother, Ted: Jill: "Dad is innocent. He would never have done anything like that. You must believe that too." Ted: "But, Jilly, they found him guilty; there was no reasonable doubt." Jill: "I don't care. I still think he's innocent, and that's all that really counts." Answer: The World Revolves Around Me
Jill is using The World Revolves Around Me Fallacy in this scenario. Because she believes her dad is innocent, he must be innocent and everyone
else should believe that too. It is hard to accept that your parent has done something wrong, so for Jill, it is best that she believes he is innocent. Jill should accept/ come to terms that her dad was found guilty and if needed, speak with a therapist about her feelings towards the situation. 18.
Bobby wants his 12 year old stepson, Eric, to learn how to shoot a rifle. Eric, however, doesn't want to learn and Eric's mother thinks that Bobby should respect Eric's wishes. But Bobby finds this hard to accept. Unlike his wife and stepson (who are from the city), Bobby was born and raised in the country where he learned to shoot at a young age. Hunting for food was, for him, a large part of his childhood. Here is what Bobby tells his wife: Bobby: "My father taught me to shoot when I was a boy. This is how it's always been in my family; and this is how it's always gonna be. Whether he likes it or not, the boy's gonna learn to shoot."
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
Answer: Appeal to Tradition
Bobby is using the Appeal to Tradition Fallacy. Although Bobby may have good reasonings behind his families tradition, just like his wife told him,
he should respect his stepsons wishes. 19.
Amanda has been dating Pete for four months. Recently, Pete has begun to talk about getting married. Amanda, however, does not want the relationship to go any further although, in spite of her feelings, she has continued to date him. Here is what she tells a close friend: Amanda: "I really want to break it off, but I just don't know how to tell him. The last time I tried, he looked like he was going to cry. He's a nice guy and all, and I really don't want to hurt him." Answer: Misuse of Pity
Amanda is feeling sorry and pitying her boyfriend because she doesn’t want to hurt him. Amanda should focus on what is best for her instead of staying with someone she doesn’t truly want to be with. By staying with him,
she is giving him false hope for their future and in the long run, hurt him even more by staying with him. 20.
Melanie's 10 year old son, Mike, has asked his mom, on many occasions, for an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle). Until recently, Melanie has consistently refused this request on the grounds that they are very unsafe. However, here
is a recent discussion between the two in which Melanie changes her mind: Mike: "All the other guys have em, mom. I'm the only one who doesn't and I look like a nerd. Oh please can I have one? I'll be careful. Please mom?" Melanie: "Well, alright but you be careful, you hear?" Answer: Jumping on the Bandwagon
Melanie’s son Mike is jumping on the bandwagon because his friends have an ATV. Melanie should have stood her ground in what she believes in, which is that the ATV is not safe for a 10-year-old, instead of giving in. Although you can never be too safe, it is more of a risk for her son to get hurt, all because he is “jumping on the bandwagon”.
21.
Denise and her boyfriend, Wayne, are planning their weekend activity together. Here is their discussion: Wayne: "Let's go fishing at Cricket Creek. That's real fun." Denise: "But I'd like to go swimming at the country club. I don't really like fishing." Wayne: "Boloney. That country club stinks. Fishing at The Creek is better. Besides, I know you'll have fun. I always do; so you will too." Answer: The World Revolves Around Me
Wayne is using the world revolves around me fallacy. He believes because The Creek is better, Denise will have fun there. Wayne does not know if Denise will like The Creek better and should have taken her option in consideration before assuming that she will like his option more than hers. 22.
Here is what Stanley tells a friend about his blind date last night with Fran: Stanley: "I had a great time with Francine last night. We really seemed to hit it off. She's very nice, and I really enjoy being with her. She's really good looking too except there's one thing that bothers me about her. She's got a bunion on her big toe and I really don't want a girlfriend with ugly feet." Answer: Hairsplitting
Although Stanley is happy with Francine and she is everything he likes, she is focusing his attention on her big toe which is irrelevant to her overall persona. In this case, it is possible for Francine to get surgery to remove the bunion. Since it can be a temporary thing, Stanley shouldn’t focus his attention on how “ugly” her feet are and focus on the qualities and personality Francine has. Darien is a high school senior who is enrolled in Mrs. Drucker's chemistry class. He is presently in danger of failing chemistry and Mrs. Drucker has discussed the matter with Darien's parents. Mrs. Drucker has agreed to provide additional help for Darien after school and Darien has agreed to delegate more time to studying chemistry. In fact, he has decided to spend his Saturday afternoon's doing his chemistry instead of socializing. Here is a
discussion be- tween Darien and Mrs. Drucker at the end of one of their extra
help sessions: Mrs. Drucker: "Darien, I need someone this Saturday to help me move into my new home. You have a strong back. Would you like to help?" Darien: "Well, I don't know; I was planning. . . . Well, alright, I think I can. OK, I can do it." Mrs. Drucker: "Are you sure? I can find someone else." Darien: "Sure, no sweat!" Answer: Changing the Subject
Darien’s priority is to study but instead, tells his teacher he can help her move. Because he knows his main priority, he is changing the subject when talking to his teacher so he won't have to explain what he should be doing. If Darien was serious about his grades and passing his class, he would have kindly told Mrs. Drucker no and focused on his work instead. 24.
Fenton and his wife, Juliet, have both come home late from work. Neither
has eaten supper yet and Fenton suggests that they go out to eat. Here is their discussion: Fenton: "Why don't we eat out tonight?"
Juliet: "Good idea. Where do you want to eat?"
Fenton: "I could go for some Mexican food. Let's go to Los Sombreros. That's a good place."
Juliet: "I really can't eat that stuff. I get sick from it. Can't we go somewhere where I can get something I can eat too?"
Fenton: "Will you stop being so disagreeable. Mexican food is good food. It never makes me sick; and it tastes good. Come on, let's go. It's getting late and I want to get back in time so we can watch that TV show I told you I wanted to see." Answer: The World Revolves Around Me
Fenton does not care if his wife gets sick from eating Mexican food. Therefore, he is using the world revolves around me fallacy. Fenton should be
more considerate of his wife’s health instead of being selfish.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
25.
Leo and Tabatha have been married for twenty years. Much of their time together has been spent quarreling with one another. In what follows they are both dressing for an affair that they will be attending together later on that evening: Tabatha: "Why don't you wear your white jacket. And put on some deodorant.
You smell." Leo: "How would you know anything about fashion. Are you some kind of beauty queen? You fat pig." Tabatha: "OK, that about did it. You think you can talk to me like that and get away with it? I'll get you back for that, you baldheaded little man. You don't even know how to make love. Not only that, you're blind as a bat without those ugly little glasses of yours. And you're boring too. Do you think I like listening to those stupid stories you tell me about that dumb little job of yours. And You think you're such a gem? Ha!" Answer: Two Wrongs Make a Right
Both Leo and Tabitha are calling each other names and belittling one another using the two wrongs make a right fallacy. In this situation, both Leo and Tabitha should see a marriage counselor and resolve the issues they have in their marriage. This marriage is already failing and has been for quite some time and if they continue to fight, could lead to, if not already, self-
esteem issues and hate towards each other. I think they should either divorce or speak with a marriage counselor instead of back and forth bickering. 26.
John has recently lost his job as a shoe salesman and has been unsuccessful so far in finding another job selling shoes. Here is what John's wife tells her friend: "John had four job interviews this month and he still hasn't gotten a job. How can I expect him to go through another rejection; so, if he wants to stay home from now on, I guess I'll have to take on an extra job in order to make ends meet." Answer: Misuse of Pity
John’s wife is feeling bad for her husband because she doesn’t want to see him lose another job. She is willing to get another job so he won't have to take the rejection again. In this case, John’s wife should encourage him and support him with finding a new job instead of feeling sorry for him and taking on another job.
27.
In the lunch room, Brandon, a very popular high school student is aggressively "mocking out" Elmer, a much less popular student while several
other students watch with amusement. For instance, Brandon calls the somewhat overweight Elmer a "Goodyear Blimp." Elmer appeals to the cafeteria monitor, Mr. Max, who is onlooking, to intervene and cause a halt to
Brandon's verbal abuse. Here is How Mr. Max handles the situation: Mr. Max: "Now Elmer, maybe you shouldn't be so thin-skinned. Then again, that might be the only thing `thin' about you." [The other students laugh]
28.
"Nobody in my family has ever gotten a divorce so I'll be damned if I will!" Answer: Appeal to Tradition
This scenario is using the Appeal to Tradition Fallacy. It has become a “tradition” that no one in his/her family has ever had a divorce. 29.
Here is a discussion between Talbot and his 8-year-old son, Adam: Adam: "Dad, do you believe in God?"
Talbot: "Of course I do, son."
Adam: "But how do you know He exists?"
Talbot: "You just have to have faith, son."
Adam: "But that doesn't prove anything. Why should I have faith anyway?" Talbot: "Son, it's past your bedtime any I have things to do. Why don't you take a glass of milk and get to bed. Did you brush your teeth yet?" Answer: Changing the Subject
I believe Talbot is changing the subject because he has already made his claim to his son. He tells his son, although you can’t physically prove God exists, to just have faith. He proceeds to ask if Adam has brushed his teeth. Therefore, changing the subject. In this situation, Talbot could have given Adam some reasons why he believes God is real.
30.
"Since I should be making my own decisions, I don't want to hear your advice or anybody else's for that matter." Answer: The World Revolves Around Me
This person does not want to take advice from anyone else and only cares about their own self and decisions they make. Therefore, they think the
world revolves around them. 31.
The following is a discussion between two high school students about one of their teachers, Mr. Roswell: Bill: "Mr. Roswell is always lecturing us about how dangerous it is to be promiscuous in this age of venereal diseases, especially AIDS. Well guess what?" Phil: "What? Tell me." Bill: "My older brother went to college with Mr. Roswell and said that the man
was "a real babe killer." Phil: "So what does he expect us to do, stay virgins while he makes it with the women." Bill: "I don't believe a guy like that. What a hypocrite!" Answer: Appeal to Ignorance
This scenario is using the appeal to ignorance fallacy. Bill and Phill cannot prove that Mr. Roswell is a “real babe killer”. They are basing their judgement off of what someone has told them. Instead, Bill shouldn’t judge someone, especially if he doesn’t know Mr. Roswell personally. 32.
Jim: "Why did you loan my videos out without even asking me?"
Jim's Roommate: "Well, you take my compact disks without asking my permission, don't you? So, I guess that makes us even." Answer: Two Wrongs Make a Right
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
This scenario is using two wrongs make a right fallacy. Since Jim took his roommate’s compact disk, his roommate felt it was ok to take his videos without asking. In this case, both Jim and his roommate should talk to one another before taking things that aren’t theirs. For a simpler example, ask and you shall receive. *33.
Maureen is single and extremely wealthy. She and Jim have been going together for three weeks when Jim asked Maureen to marry him. Here is a discussion between Maureen and her best friend Milley: Maureen: "Jim proposed to me last night." Milley: He did? How do you know that he's not just after your money? You don't know him very long, so you really don't know if he's on the level. So, I wouldn't believe him. He's probably just one of those con artists." Maureen: Maybe you're right. I better tell him that I'm not interested in marriage. Maybe I shouldn't even see him anymore, not if he's some kind of con artist. He's very charming, but I really don't know what his real motives are. I guess I just better break it off now before it goes any further." Answer: Appeal to Ignorance Maureen is using the Appeal to Ignorance Fallacy. She doesn’t know for sure if Jim is out for her money. In this scenario, Maureen shouldn’t call off the relationship just yet. It’s ok to date and get to know someone but just because her friend Milley gave her a different outlook about Jim, doesn’t mean Jim is out for her money. Maureen should be cautious and get to know Jim more before she says “yes” to his proposal. Not break off the whole relationship until there is actual proof of his motives. 34.
Morty has high blood pressure and is under a doctor's care. His wife usually comes with him when he sees the doctor. After one visit, here is what
Morty tells his wife: Morty: "You ask the doctor too many questions. Nobody else I know asks as many questions as you. They just shut up and do whatever he says, and that's what you should do too." Answer: Misuse of Authority
This scenario is using the misuse of authority. Morty believes that because he is speaking with a professional doctor, that doctor is 100 percent correct and there should be no further questions. In this case, Morty should allow his wife to ask questions because it could help the doctor understand more about his high blood pressure. This will also help his wife understand what exactly is going on with Morty because she may not be well aware of what high blood pressure can do to someone. 35.
In what follows, Billy, a 7-year-old, asks his father if he can use some of his tools. Here is their discussion: Billy: "Dad, can I use your electric drill to make an air hole in my toy chest so that I can put Ralphy [the dog] in there?" Dad: "No. You keep your little hands off of my tools."
Billy: "But dad, why can't I?"
Dad: "Did you hear what I said!? If you touch any of my tools, I'll beat the daylights out
of you, that's why! You keep your hands off of those tools or else! Do you understand?" Billy: "Yes Dad." Answer: Appeal to Force
Billy’s dad is using the Appeal to Force Fallacy. He does this by threatening to “beat the daylights” out of him. Billy’s dad shouldn’t have been so harsh on his 7-year-old. This could cause Billy to react the same way
towards others. Instead, Billy’s dad should have told Billy in a nicer and more
understanding way rather than a threatening way.
*36.
Preston Porterhouse, M.D. wants his son, Tom, to be a premed major in college, however Tom does not want to be a physician. Here is their discussion: Preston: I am a physician and so was your grandfather, and your great grandfather. And I expect you to follow in these same footsteps, son." Tom: "I don't know Dad. I Just don't think I'm cut out for it. I would rather major in music. I'm really good, Dad."
Preston: "Nonsense. You're a Porterhouse, aren't you?"
Tom: "Yes, Dad."
Preston: "Then that settles it, son. I don't want to hear any more of this talk about music." Answer: Appeal to Tradition
Preston believes that because his father and grandfather were physicians and so is he, that his son has to be one to. This has become a tradition in their family. In this situation, Preston should be more understanding to what his son wants to major in. 37.
Billy and Connie are two high school seniors who have gone steady for the past two months. Billy wants to have intercourse with Connie but, so far, Connie has refused. Here is what Billy finally tells Connie: Billy: "If you won't go all the way with me, then I'm breaking up with you." Answer: Appeal to Force
Billy is using the Appeal to Force Fallacy. He is threatening and manipulating Connie to have sexual relations with him when she is not ready for that step. Billy should be accepting that Connie is not ready to go all the way with him. If Billy continues to be this way, this could lead to not only heartbreak, but emotional abuse and confusion for Connie in the future. 38.
Gloria and her friend Kara have agreed to clothes shop for the afternoon.
Here is their discussion: Kara: "Why don't we look for some things at Good Deals Department Store. They're having a big sale today." Gloria: "Are you serious!? Really, how could you even suggest such a thing! I would never buy my clothes at Good Deals. People of our class don't shop there. They buy their cloths in the Meadow Lark shops. That's where I suggest we shop, shall we?" Answer: The World Revolves Around Me
I believe Gloria is using the world revolves around me fallacy. She is not considering her friends suggestion and only cares about what she wants to do. In this case, Gloria should put her pride aside and reason with her friend instead of making their shopping day all about her.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
*39.
Here is a discussion between two friends, Pam and Nora: Pam: "I've been having these dizzy spells, off and on, lately."
Nora: "Don't you think you should see a doctor?"
Pam: "No. I'll be alright. I just have to get more rest. I talked to my friend Sharon yesterday and told her about the dizzy spells. You know she's Dr. Spencer's receptionist and she sees a lot of sick people. Well, she told me that I'm probably just tired and need to get more sleep. I think she's probably
right; I really haven't been sleeping very well lately. I sure felt relieved after talking to her. I was imagining all sorts of things at first." Answer: Misuse of Authority
Pam believes that because Sharon is the Dr’s receptionist, that she is qualified and knows exactly what Pam needs to do. Pam should talk with a professional Doctor to see why she is having dizzy spells. There could be an underlining problem Pam is having, not just getting rest. 40.
Here is what one English teacher says in response to a proposal to introduce new computer software for teaching English grammar: "When I was a student, we didn't have any of this high-tech equipment. We didn't have spell checkers, word processors, computers, mini calculators, and
all these software packages. We didn't have it then and we still learned. So why do we need it now." Answer: Appeal to Tradition
This English teacher is using the Appeal to Tradition Fallacy. In her view, you are still able to learn without high-tech equipment and most likely wants to keep her students on the same
path as her when she was in school. Although this is a valid question she is asking, it is also good
for her students to learn new-age technology since that is where the world is heading anyway. This English teacher could teach her “old school” way, and also use the high-tech technology. 41.
Daughter: "I'm not sure I ever want any children."
Mother: "Nonsense! The happiest moment of my life was when I gave birth. You'll feel that way too when you have children." Answer: Hairsplitting
I believe this mother is not focusing on what her daughter wants. She is not listening to her daughters’ feelings about not wanting children and focusing on what she thinks is best. This mother should listen to her
daughter and take her feelings into consideration instead of trying to change her mind by telling her “It was the happiest moment of my life.”.
42. Here is a discussion between Fred, a community college student, and his religion instructor, Mr. Cornwallis: Fred: Mr. Cornwallis, why did I get a "C" on my paper on "gay rights'? Mr. Cornwallis: "Because you said that homosexuality is an acceptable sexual
orientation. But quite to the contrary, homosexuality is a sin against nature. It is a sickness, not an acceptable lifestyle at all, and society should not condone gay rights." Fred: That's just your opinion. I read that not even the American Psychological Association any longer considers homosexuality to be sexually deviant behavior. Mr. Cornwallis: "No, it's not just my opinion, it’s in the Bible. I don't care what
the
psychologists say. They apparently don't read the Bible, but I do." Answer: Appeal to Ignorance
Mr. Cornwallis is using the appeal to ignorance fallacy. What he believes is true is not true to everyone. He should not lower someone’s grade because of his own beliefs. Rather, focus on what the assignment was about. 43.
Lynn is a single parent. Her daughter, Priscilla, an eighth grader, has displayed aggressive behavior, especially in school. In what follows, Lynn discusses this matter with her girlfriend, Lisa: Lynn: "Priscilla has been getting in trouble in school. They say she has been cutting classes, disobeying school rules and speaking disrespectfully, using profane language, to her teachers." Lisa: "But Priscilla was always so good in school. What are you going to do about it?" Lynn: "They want Priscilla to see the school psychologist, but I don't think that's necessary." Lisa: "Whynot?"
Lynn: "I told my father about Priscilla, and he says that it's just a normal stage that adolescents go through. He ought to know. Right? He raised me." Answer: Misuse of Authority
Lynn is using the Misuse of Authority Fallacy. Because her father raised her and knows about how children can act at Pricilla’s age, she believes he is
right and that she doesn’t need to see a psychologist. There is truth in what she says but it is also important to speak with a professional about her daughters’ behavior. Priscilla could be more open to a psychologist rather than her parents and could benefit from going and learn why she is acting out.
44
. Jackie wants to have dinner at her mother's next Sunday. She tries to convince her husband Ed to go with her but Ed refuses. Here is what he says to Jackie about the matter: Ed: "You know I have a heart condition, so you better not argue with me. You wouldn't want to be responsible for my dropping dead, would you?" Answer: Misuse of Pity
Ed is threatening Jackie by making it feel like it would be her fault if he were to “drop dead”. Manipulating her to feel guilty about his heart condition. Ed could have told his wife politely that he wants to skip out on the family dinner instead of already putting the blame on his wife.
45.
John and Cindy have been married for twenty-one years. In the past few years, the two have had sex on the average of once each month: John: "Hey honey, you look good tonight. How about you and me? Ya know what I mean babe?" Cindy: "Well aren't we frisky tonight. What would you like for supper? I'll tell you what. I'll make you those nice turkey burgers you like." Answer: Changing the Subject
Cindy is changing the subject in this scenario. There could be many possible reasons why she would not want to have sex with her husband. Because they have been married for over 20 years, maybe she wants something new and exciting. There could also be personal issues like low
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
self-esteem. Either way, Cindy should converse with her husband about their sex life instead of avoiding the issues.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help