Critical Thinking: Anecdotal Fallacy

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What are Logical Fallacies?

A logical fallacy is an error in reasoning common enough to warrant a fancy name. Knowing how to spot and identify fallacies is a priceless skill. It can save you time, money, and personal dignity.

What is The Anecdotal Fallacy?

(AKA Argument from Personal Experience) Anecdotal evidence is a term referring to evidence that is collected and supported by isolated, specific instances of an event. It relies on personal testimonies rather than on scientific evidence, and, consequently, is considered as the weakest type of evidence.

Example 1:

“Self-driving cars are too dangerous to be used on public roads. Just last week I read about a case where a self-driving car caused a fatal crash.”

Example 2:

“Why aren’t we treating cancer with broccoli? My friend told me that there have been a few cases where a cancer patient was cured after they switched to a broccoli-based diet.”

Example 3:

“Many people have experienced something they can only describe as paranormal experience, so it really must be true.”

Example 4:

“There are thousands of alien abduction testimonials so aliens have obviously visited us.”

Critical Thinking: Anecdotal Fallacy
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