There are many logical fallacies, and over the next few weeks and months, I will occasionally focus on a fallacy. While fallacies are typically from the debating sphere and may seem out of place on a blog dedicated to writing, they do appear in writing as well. And not just in social media and blog comments either. They can appear in website and marketing copy, political speeches, opinion pieces, and so on.
Today’s fallacy is red herring.
What is the red herring fallacy?
A red herring fallacy is when a speaker presents another issue as a way to deflect from the current issue being discussed. This tactic is often used when the speaker finds themselves losing an argument or the person they’re debating seems to be more knowledgeable on the subject.
Examples of the red herring fallacy
Here are some other examples of the red herring fallacy:
- We announce that we are moving our business to Mexico. It’ll result in some job losses, but Mexico has beaches and sunny weather
- The speaker started off fine enough by admitting the move will have negative consequences but then deflected by focusing on a positive that has no bearing on the negative consequences.
- Trying to save the world is pointless. We can’t recreate the Garden of Eden. Besides, Adam and Eve were bored in the Garden of Eden.
- Maybe Adam and Eve were bored in the Garden of Eden, but that is not at all relevant to taking care of the environment.
- Yes, I know I’m an hour past my curfew, but have you seen how hard the rain is coming down? I’ve never seen anything like it.
- The weather is completely unrelated to being late.
- You think it’s tough living on your wage? When I was your age, I made only $2.50 an hour!
- Again, irrelevant. What your wage was 40 years ago has nothing to do with whether it is difficult to make a living today.
Trying to deflect from the points someone else raises is unfair to them, and it’s intellectually lazy for you. Hopefully, these examples explain the importance of focusing on an opponent’s claims rather than moving to irrelevant points.
Which logical fallacy should I cover next? Let me know in the comments below.
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