1.1 Countering logical fallacies
Imagine you meet up with your friend, Cody, and he says:
“There’s so much evidence out there that the earth is flat.”
Immediately, you feel sceptical about this statement. But how should you handle this situation? Here are some tips.
1. Identify the fallacy
Ask yourself: what is it about this argument that I think is flawed?
For example, you might think:
“The world is flat… I don’t agree with that… I know a lot of conspiracy theorists have that opinion… Is that where his ‘evidence’ comes from?”
2. Stay calm and be respectful
Remember that healthy debate is a good thing- it is how we learn and generate new ideas. By staying calm and respectful, it is an opportunity for ideas to be shared.
For example:
“That’s an interesting idea. I have heard other people make a similar argument.”
3. Ask for clarification
Asking for clarification can help both parties to avoid miscommunication or confusion.
For example:
“Do you mean that the world is completely flat? And where does this evidence come from?”
4. Present evidence
Do you know anything about the subject? Do you have any facts at hand that could contribute to the conversation and potentially uncover misinformation?
For example:
“Actually, I’ve just read a book by a geography professor called James Mannan who explains mathematically how we know the world is round.”
5. Question assumptions
By questioning assumptions, you are opening the door to debate and offering the person a chance to identify the assumptions that have weakened their argument or led to inaccuracies in their reasoning.
For example:
“You mentioned that there’s heaps of evidence. Have you had a chance to examine it yourself?”
6. Present alternative explanations
Do you have any other explanations for the situation? Presenting these could help the other person to see the issue from another angle.
For example:
“Is it possible that this evidence comes from unreliable sources?”
7. Be patient
Entering into a heated argument isn’t going to convince the other person that their argument is flawed. They may need time to recognise that the information they have presented isn’t correct. Hopefully, this conversation with you will help them reevaluate their argument.
For example:
“I hear what you’re saying, but I have to respectfully disagree on this one.”
