A fallacy is a flawed argument in the use of logic or rhetoric that results in a lack of validity. That much is certainly clear. In this English Class we are constantly instructed to overcome fallacies; and this post is all about said fallacies in popular media. So let's begin.
The three fallacies I wish to discuss are: Confirmation Bias, False Authority, and Nirvana.
Confirmation Bias is a form of rhetoric in which the writer only uses evidence supporting his theory and rejects all evidence to the contrary. This is commonly used in the criminal justice system (and, consequently, the true crime television shows I watch) where lawyers, in presenting their cases for the conviction or acquittal of a defendant, will ignore materials contradicting their cases on the guilt or innocence of the man on trial.
False Authority follows a similar form wherein information is practically taken out of context in order to sell a product. In the case of trailers on television for poorly rated movies, the one review written by a critic who enjoyed the picture will be used in the advertisement over the many more negative reviews to be glossed over.
The Nirvana Fallacy rejects every solution to a problem that isn't perfect. As an example: In the Gun Rights debate, opponents of bills that support Gun Control, despite being given proven statistics that these potential laws would be beneficial, will argue that said bill will not stop gun violence by 100% and, as such, the proposed bill is useless. This particular fallacy bothers me so.
And there you have it.
Blessed be!
Good approach I like where you went with the argument
ReplyDeleteyou sound like you would be great in a debate. love it!
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