A false analogy is a type of informal fallacy. It states that since Item A and Item B both have Quality X in common, they must also have Quality Y in common. For example, say Joan and Mary both drive pickup trucks. Since Joan is a teacher, Mary must also be a teacher. This is flawed reasoning! As we explore the false analogy examples below, you’ll see they’re often presented in the form of a simile or metaphor.
EXAMPLES OF FALSE ANALOGY
The Watchmaker Argument
The Watchmaker ArgumentA pocket watch is complex, and it’s clear that it must have been designed intelligently by a watchmaker. Living beings and the world are similarly complex. Thus, they must also be the product of intelligent design.
Opportunistic Scavengers
Opportunistic ScavengersPayday loan and credit card companies are just like opportunistic vultures. They’ll always strike at victims when they’re at their weakest
A Brave New World
A Brave New WorldIf America can be the first country to put a man on the moon, it can also be the first country to put a man on Mars
Video Game Addiction
Video Game AddictionAn addiction to drugs or alcohol can completely ruin someone’s life. If you play too many video games and get addicted, you’re going to ruin your life too.
Unemployment Rates
Unemployment RatesUnder the Trump administration, the unemployment rate in America is the lowest it has been in 20 years. The real median household income is also at a 20-year high.
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WHAT IS FALSE ANALOGY?
A false analogy is a type of informal fallacy. It states that since Item A and Item B both have Quality X in common, they must also have Quality Y in common. For example, say Joan and Mary both drive pickup trucks. Since Joan is a teacher, Mary must also be a teacher. This is flawed reasoning! As we explore the false analogy examples below, you’ll see they’re often presented in the form of a simile or metaphor.
EXAMPLES OF FALSE ANALOGY
The Watchmaker Argument
The Watchmaker ArgumentA pocket watch is complex, and it’s clear that it must have been designed intelligently by a watchmaker. Living beings and the world are similarly complex. Thus, they must also be the product of intelligent design.
Opportunistic Scavengers
Opportunistic ScavengersPayday loan and credit card companies are just like opportunistic vultures. They’ll always strike at victims when they’re at their weakest
A Brave New World
A Brave New WorldIf America can be the first country to put a man on the moon, it can also be the first country to put a man on Mars
Video Game Addiction
Video Game AddictionAn addiction to drugs or alcohol can completely ruin someone’s life. If you play too many video games and get addicted, you’re going to ruin your life too.
Unemployment Rates
Unemployment RatesUnder the Trump administration, the unemployment rate in America is the lowest it has been in 20 years. The real median household income is also at a 20-year high.
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