In the Evolution vs. Creationism debate, it is important to be able to spot all the logical fallacies that Creationists tend to throw around. This essay covers many bare essentials of logical thinking, as well as ways to critically evaluate an argument.
“Evolution is impossible because the Big Bang is a totally unacceptable theory because it defies the word of our loving Creator, He who sent His only Son, our Lord to…[continue with mindless religious yammering ad infinitum].”
The Big Bang has nothing to do with evolution. If it was proven wrong tomorrow, it wouldn’t change the fact that organisms evolve to adapt to their environment, or they die.
This one can often be tricky to spot, because your first instinct is to correct the moron’s ranting about the Big Bang. Don’t let him lead you off on his tangent. Make sure that your opponent has directly addressed your point before proceeding.
Demand that your opponent address your argument. Inform him and all those watching that his response is a simple red herring, meant to divert attention away from arguments that he can’t counter.
One Response to “Logical Fallacies and How to Spot Them”rss
Rich, on December 6th, 2005, said:
Very interesting post. I do get pulled off into the tangents far too often. I’m just stupid enough to pursue and argue with stupidity.
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