Fallacy as Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary define it, an often plausible argument using
false or in invalid inference. Therefore, we must understand what an argument is. An argument is
a collection of statements that support of some other. The statements offered in support of other
are called premises and the statements supported are conclusions. As a result, a fallacy is an error
of reasoning or fails to provide logical support to it's conclusion. Next are three logical fallacies
defined and it's significance to critical thinking and application to decision making.
Personal attack arguments occur when the arguer attacks the person character rather the
person views or ideas. The fallacy draws its appeal from the technique of "getting personal." The
assumption is that what the arguer is saying is entirely or partially dictated by his character.
Here's an example of a personal attack fallacy:
That HRM department supervisor's stress management program can't possibly be worth the
time. It's run by a bunch of "touchy feely" types who don't know stress management from
The personal attack on the character of the stress management team is not appropriate, and it also influence some employees who could benefit from the program. Here's another example:
Bill: "I believe that abortion is morally wrong."
Dave: "Of course you would say that, you're a priest."
Bill: "What about the arguments I gave to support my position?"
Dave: "Those don't count. Like I said, you're a priest, so you have to say that abortion is
wrong. Further, you are just a lackey to the Pope, so I can't believe what you say."
Being a priest, has nothing to do about Bill's arguments. The fact that Dave attack
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