Define a logical fallacy and provide two examples relevant to seminar argumentation.

• A. A logical fallacy is a proven fact.
• B. A logical fallacy is an ethical guideline.
• C. A logical fallacy is a flawed argument; examples include non sequiturs (conclusions do not follow premises) and straw man (misrepresenting opposing view).
• D. A logical fallacy is a statistical rule.

Answer: (C)

A logical fallacy is a flawed argument where the reason given does not actually support the conclusion, even if the overall claim might seem convincing. In seminar discussions, recognizing these helps keep reasoning clear and prevents conclusions from being accepted on appearances rather than solid links between evidence and claim.

Two relevant, concrete examples you’d encounter in seminar argumentation:

• Non sequitur: the conclusion doesn’t follow from the premises. For instance, someone argues, “We added a new algorithm to the system; therefore sales will increase.” The fact of adding an algorithm doesn’t by itself prove that sales will rise, so the link between premise and conclusion isn’t established.

• Straw man: someone distorts or oversimplifies an opponent’s position to make it easier to attack. For example, “Supporters want to extend eligibility criteria to more applicants, so they’re clearly trying to give away benefits to everyone.” This misrepresents the actual proposal, attacking a weaker version rather than the real argument.

The other options describe something that isn’t a fallacy: a proven fact, an ethical guideline, or a statistical rule.