The Round Table

The Round Table Promoting critical thinking and scientific literacy

06/10/2026
06/10/2026

This

Going.
05/21/2026

Going.

05/12/2026

I always thought orthopedic shoes were overrated.
I stand corrected.....

05/08/2026

TODAY’S FALLACY: STRAW MAN

DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION: A straw man argument misrepresents an opponent’s argument to make it easier to dismiss. The straw man can take many forms, but it often involves distorting, exaggerating, oversimplifying, or taking parts out of context, and can be quite effective if you’re not paying attention. By building a straw version of the original argument they can more easily knock it down and claim victory. However, it’s fallacious because they are attacking a position their opponent doesn’t hold.

Anti-science arguments often employ straw man fallacies, as it’s much easier to “defeat” strongly supported scientific conclusions when those conclusions are misrepresented.

HOW TO COUNTER: First, consider the possibility that the straw man argument was unintentional, and that the other person doesn’t understand the original argument. Sometimes, however, the straw man is a purposeful attempt to persuade others through deception. Either way, point out the use of the straw man by explaining how their version differs from your original position.

MORE ON THIS AND OTHER FALLACIES: https://thinkingispower.com/logical-fallacies/
SUPPORT TIP ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ThinkingIsPower

05/08/2026

It's amazing how much can be done when you don't care who gets the credit.

Address

West Fargo, ND
58078

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Round Table posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The School

Send a message to The Round Table:

Shortcuts

Share