Question

Why is it important to be on the lookout for logical fallacies when in a group situation? Describe a situation in a group you have been in or seen when someone made a fallacy. How might you challenge a conclusion that includes a fallacy in a group situation?

Answer 1

Groups function differently from its individual members and are prone to making errors in reasoning. One such phenomenon refers to group polarisation, which is the tendency for a group to make decisions that are more extreme than the initial inclination of its members. When a logically fallacious argument is accepted by the group, it is likely that the members exaggerate its validity and soundness, and ignore its faulty reasoning. As a daily example, I find a lot of individuals holding stereotypic attitudes against certain ethnic minorities. I have interacted with several supporters of President Trump who hold that immigration is the root cause of unemployment, offering several fallacious arguments in that regard. As a member of the out group, I feel that it is almost possible to convince people to perceive the error in their reasoning, much alone change their views. However, providing contrary evidence in the form of scientific research would perhaps be the best method.