Common Logical Fallacies

Insufficient or inadequate information poses the greatest threat to the integrity of an argument , but even with adequate material to support it an argument can fail because of structural weaknesses and counterfeit strategies. Suppressed, ignored, or unconsidered evidence can invalidate conclusions. Try to identify the assumptions on which your argument rests, and consid er whether your evidence adequately supports your conclusions. Anticipate possible counter arguments or objections to your methods. Treat your own argument as you would an opponent's, checking for every possible weakness, every advantageous point of attack . Look for failures in logic; challenge your own assumptions. Be aware of the common fallacies in reasoning. These errors involve false judgments of the available factual material, and all lead to untenable conclusions.