Fallacies: In Section 8.2, the text states that there are "fallacious argument templates" (Facione &
Gittens, p. 167) and then gives a number of examples. The authors further state: "Analysis of the
meanings of the terms used and the grammatical rules of the language reveal the source of error"
(p.167).
Choose one of the fallacies in this section, such as Denying the Antecedent or False
Classification and pair it with the valid argument template. For example, if you choose
Denying the Antecedent, the valid argument template will be Denying the Consequent. False
Classification would pair with one of the fallacies in Reasoning About Classes of Objects.
Explain, in your own words, how the fallacy is revealed through analysis of the valid argument
template. Think of it this way – if you know how the heart works, you will know that certain
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malfunctions will prevent it from working. For example, if you know that the coronary arteries
supply the heart with blood, then you can reason that a blockage will stop that vital flow. So
this journal prompt asks you to explain, in your own words, how one of the valid argument
templates work – and how that exposes the fallacy connected with that type of argument.
Civic Responsibility: At the end of Chapter 9 there is a Bonus Exercise that asks you to research
and analyze the 2009 debate over the healthcare public option. If you were actually to complete
that exercise, it would take quite a bit of time and effort.
Do you think that completing such an exercise would be time well spent or time wasted? If
well-spent, why? If time wasted, why?
Is there any issue on which you think a comparable amount of time and effort would be
worthwhile?
As a critical thinker, do you believe that citizens have an obligation to be informed on topics of
current interest? If yes, why, if no, why not?
Sample Solution