Archive for Fallacies
Normalcy Bias – Overcoming It In Yourself and Others
Podcast: Play in new window | Download We all desire and gravitate toward the predictable and familiar. This is natural as we gain comfort and security from that which we know. When surprised by the abnormal or unfamiliar our stress levels go up and fight or flight instincts can kick in. This need for the [...]
Exploring Civil Disobedience and Legal Jargon
Podcast: Play in new window | Download First let me say that I am supportive of legitimate civil disobedience and it is a great way to bring about peaceful change. This past years Occupy Wall Street was an example of civil disobedience although the message was somewhat lost on me. That is, there were several [...]
Fallacy Arguments In Media: The Cacophemism
Cacophemism A word or expression that is generally perceived as harsh, impolite, or offensive. Similar to dysphemism. Contrast with euphemism. Adjective: cacophemistic. Etymology: From the Greek, “bad” plus “speech” This is part of my ongoing series on “Fallacy Arguments In Media” Ever wonder why news commentators talk trash? Answer: Because it works. The masses tune [...]
Fallacy Arguments: Appeal to Authority: Expertology
As I pull away from my home this morning I hear the beeping of my seat belt alarm. It won’t stop till I pull the strap across my chest and lock it in place. 9 out of 10 doctors tell me what brands to buy. Pollsters, pundits, commentators and other experts won’t tell me who [...]