you will research the logical fallacies and describe how different logical fallacies contradict the scientific method. Lists and descriptions of logical fallacies can be found from a simple Google search (do not just search for fallacy though, you need to find lists and examples of logical fallacies)
For this exercise, we will define the scientific method according to the Oxford Dictionaries: “A method of procedure that has characterized natural science since the 17th century, consisting in systematic observation, measurement, and experiment, and the formulation, testing, and modification of hypotheses.”
Noting two additional concepts:
1) “Criticism is the backbone of the scientific method,” which means that other scientists or experts review your work and critique it on the basis of criteria such as did you do valid, documented, and repeatable tests; can you expand your tests; did you forget a particular variable; is your interpretation of the results valid (based on evidence and sound reasoning, not fallacies); or, are there other equally valid interpretations, etc.?
2) The statement that a process is presently “based on valid scientific methods” means that scientists reporting on an investigation or results of an experiment have followed scientific methods that have either been tested previously or have evidence to support that these methods provide the best scientific means known to investigate a problem or observation.
An example answer, based on the “begging the question” fallacy presented in the video, would include the definition of that fallacy and could be as follows:
Begging the question fallacy
Presents a circular argument in which the conclusion is included in the premise
Smoking cigarettes can kill you because cigarettes are deadly
This contradicts the scientific method because it does not present a way to test the hypothesis presented
For this assignment, choose five (5) or more logical fallacies and use the format below to answer what they are and describe how they contradict the scientific method. Each fallacy is worth 20 points; each sub-question is worth 5 points.
Please use the following format:
Name of fallacy
Description or definition of fallacy
An example of the fallacy
How the fallacy contradicts the scientific method
*Don’t forget to include the URL or web address of the site(s) you searched for your information.*
Submit this written assignment by Sunday at 11:59 p.m. ET.
