Question

Which sentence exemplifies the logical fallacy "fear"?

Answer 1

Answer:

If we don't elect Mrs. Smith to the senate, we will definitely see a rise in taxes.

Explanation:

According to Clinical psychologist Rian McMullin, "Logical fallacies are unsubstantiated assertions that are often delivered with a conviction that makes them sound as though they are proven facts." The statement above uses the rise in taxes which is something that people are scared of. The assertion appears to be factual but it simply a campaign style to promote a candidate.

Answer 2

The correct answer is B. If we don't elect Mrs. Smith to the senate, we will definitely see a rise in taxes.

Explanation:

In language, the logical fallacy "fear" occurs when the speaker appeals to fear or some situation people are afraid of with the purpose of convincing people about an idea. This means, the speaker does not provide reasons or evidence but relies on the aspects people want to avoid. This occurs in the sentence "If we don't elect Mrs. Smith to the senate, we will definitely see a rise in taxes" because in this case the speaker appeals to the fear of people on more taxes to try to persuade them about not voting for Mrs. Smith; however, this is not a valid argument but is only based on fear.