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Avoiding Common Pratfalls of Thought

Hasty Generalization A hasty generalization has occurred when a conclusion has been reached using too few examples; also, when examples have been used that are irrelevant or not representative. Examples:

 I. Christians are a bunch of weak-minded sheep who never think for themselves.     II. Christians can’t argue their point because they all [...]

Humor and Fallacies

Logical Fallacies by James W. Benham and Thomas J. Marlowe

Ad hominem arguments are the tools of scoundrels and blackguards. Therefore, they are invalid. If you had any consideration for my feelings, you wouldn’t argue from an appeal to pity. What would your mother say if you argued from an appeal to sentiment? I [...]

A few tips for clear thinking

I stumbled upon a very helpful list of maxims of clear and careful thinking that I’m passing on to you. It comes from James Beverley and is gleaned from a section entitled “How to Think and Reason Correctly,” published by Zondervan.

Emotion does not settle issues of truth. Tradition is not always right. Do [...]

Common Propaganda Techniques

What are Propaganda Techniques? They are the methods and approaches used to spread ideas that further a cause – a political, commercial, religious, or civil cause. Why are they used? To manipulate the readers’ or viewers’ reason and emotions; to persuade you to believe in something or someone, buy an item, or vote a [...]