Assignment task: Some items arguably fall into more than one category; this is true in real life as well. But no item in this list could plausibly be said to fall into every category. Your instructor will tell you if your categorization is too much of a stretch. Your instructor may or may not ask you to further match instances of argument tum ad hominem to one or another of these categories: Need Assignment Help?
a. Arguments that dismiss a source's position because of the source's alleged hypocrisy or inconsistency (inconsistency ad hominem)
b. Arguments that dismiss a source's position because of other alleged deficiencies on the part of the source (personal attack or abusive ad hominem)
c. Arguments that dismiss a source's position because of the source's circumstances (circumstantial ad hominem)
d. Arguments that dismiss a source's position before the source has presented it (poisoning the well)
e. Arguments that dismiss a claim by associating it with someone we are assumed to despise (guilt by association)
f. Arguing that the source of a contention in and of itself renders it false (genetic fallacy)
- Your instructor may also ask you to identify any examples of perfectionist or line drawing versions of the false dilemma fallacy.
- Finally, your instructor may ask you to identify specific emotional appeals, including argument from outrage, appeal to pity, and scare tactics.
ANTI-GUN PERSON: Most homicides are committed with guns that were originally purchased legally.
GUN PERSON: Where did you hear that?
ANTI-GUN PERSON: Where did you hear they weren't