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message 1: by Nell (last edited Sep 28, 2021 04:48AM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
LOGICAL FALLACIES



An error in reasoning that undermines an argument. Logical fallacies are unsubstantiated assertions that are often delivered with a conviction that makes them sound as though they are proven facts. Easy to overlook, once flawed reasoning and rhetorical errors are spotted, the argument falls apart.

This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).


Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.


False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).


Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)


Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.


Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.


Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.


Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.


Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).


Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.


Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).


Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.


Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.


Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class.
Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.


Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.


Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)


Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.


Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.


Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.


Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.


The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.


message 2: by Nell (last edited Sep 28, 2021 03:30PM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
To participate: Copy and paste the list of fallacies and tasks.

Your name in msg 3 will become a link to your challenge post.

Duration: Open

Challenge Rules:
One book per task.
One task per book. (If a book fits multiple tasks, pick one.)
Books can be any genre, but cozies are preferred.
Books must be at least 125 pages.
When the task requires a specific cover item, post the cover.

Books may be used in other challenges.

Please remember to mark spoilers.

Primary Sources:
https://thebestschools.org/magazine/1...

https://www.txstate.edu/philosophy/re...


message 4: by QNPoohBear (last edited Dec 08, 2021 07:35PM) (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
--Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Apple Pie and Arsenic Apple Pie and Arsenic (Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries, #1) by C.A. Phipps

Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Georgie and Darcy are holding champagne
God Rest Ye, Royal Gentlemen by Rhys Bowen God Rest Ye, Royal Gentlemen


False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Publishable By Death Publishable By Death (St. Marin's Cozy Mystery #1) by A.C.F. Bookens

Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
Death of a Fop (the whole thing... but Jane (view spoiler) frank discussions in mixed company on sex, rape, unwanted pregnancy, prevention of unwanted pregnancy!


Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.

Bagels and Blackmail Bagels and Blackmail (Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries #2) by C.A. Phipps

Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.Grilled for MurderGrilled for Murder (Country Store Mysteries #2) by Maddie Day


Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
Beagles Love Cupcake Crimes Beagles Love Cupcake Crimes by C.A. Phipps


Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
The Dead Man in the Garden The Dead Man in the Garden (Aggie Morton, Mystery Queen, #3) by Marthe Jocelyn
Sleuths Aggie and Hector are both 12

Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
Eclairs and Extortion Eclairs and Extortion (Maple Lane Cozy Mysteries) by C.A. Phipps


Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
The Rocky Road to Ruin The Rocky Road to Ruin (Ice Cream Shop Mystery,#1) by Meri Allen running friend's ice cream shop, making ice cream

Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Mistletoe Cake Murder Mistletoe Cake Murder (All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery, #6) by Lena Gregory
MC is cafe owner, boyfriend is chief of police


Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
When the Grits Hit the Fan When the Grits Hit the Fan (Country Store Mysteries #3) by Maddie Day


Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Bake It to the Limit Bake It to the Limit (Twin Berry Bakery #1) by Wendy Meadows

Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class. Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
Profiteroles and Poison Profiteroles and Poison (Peridale Cafe #21) by Agatha Frost


Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
Literally Offed Literally Offed (A Pepper Brooks Cozy Mystery Book 4) by Eryn Scott (person)


Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
Murder at Wakehurst Murder at Wakehurst (Gilded Newport Mysteries #9) by Alyssa Maxwell

Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
A Murder, a Marquess, and Miss Mifford A Murder, a Marquess, and Miss Mifford (Regency Murder and Marriage #3) by Claudia Stone


Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
To the Tome of Murder To the Tome of Murder (Beyond the Page Bookstore Mystery, #7) by Lauren Elliott

Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
Literally Gone Literally Gone (A Pepper Brooks Cozy Mystery Book 3) by Eryn Scott


Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
Fudge and Frenemies Fudge and Frenemies (Maple Lane Mysteries #6) by C.A. Phipps

The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
Literally Dead Literally Dead (Pepper Brooks Mystery #1) by Eryn Scott


message 5: by Jennifer (new)

Jennifer (jhaltenburger) | 648 comments If anyone is interested, there's a brilliant short story about logical fallacies by Max Shulman located at http://inet.mountsaintvincent.edu/lib.... Max Shulman is also the original author of the stories that became the TV series The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, for old TV buffs.


message 6: by Tari (last edited Oct 20, 2021 08:26AM) (new)

Tari (thann) | 133 comments Logical Fall-acies
21/21
Open duration

1. Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off
(ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Yes, more than once lol-A Perfect Bind Dorothy St. James 9/18/21

2. Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.

Cold beer- The Cure for What Ales You (Sloan Krause, #5) by Ellie Alexander Ellie Alexander 10/4/21

3. False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).

Delta and her Paper Posse friends-The Glitter End Vivian Conroy 9/20/21

4. Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief.
(ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
(view spoiler) Murder at the Christmas Cookie Bake-Off Darci Hannah 9/25/21

5. Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O')

Table in the gazebo is circular- The Corpse in the Gazebo (A Food Blogger Mystery Book 5) by Debra Sennefelder Debra Sennefelder 9/26/21
-Read a book where the title is a question.

6. Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.

Here Comes the Fudge Nancy Coco 9/22/21

7. Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.

MC has a dog, dogs on cover- Tail of Two Killers (Dog Groomer Mysteries Book 4) by Chelsea Thomas Chelsea Thomas 9/27/21

8. Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
Tim-On the Trail of a Killer Cate Lawley 10/10/21

9. Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).

Christmas Market-Death at Holly Lodge Louise R. Innes 9/24/21

10. Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event).
Project may or may not be successful.
Kind of ongoing but seeing results: Molly's working on both bringing the shop into the 21st century with lots of social media posts along with going through her late uncle's book collection for titles to sell that'd bring a decent profit to the shop-Chapter and Curse Elizabeth Penney 9/28/21

11. Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).

Police Chief Martin is a key character-Sweet Friend of Mine J.A. Whiting 9/23/21

12. Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.

It Cannoli Be Murder Catherine Bruns 10/19/21

13. Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.

The first victim was-Poison-Spiced Cupcakes Emily James 9/21/21

14. Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.

#4 Cruise Mysteries-Beauty Queens and Cruises A.R. Winters 10/20/21

15. Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate

Julia-Case of the Fugitive Flamingo L.C. Richards 9/27/21
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.

16. Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
Rosie Point-The Case of the Custard Conspiracy Rosie A. Point 10/1/21

17. Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
Murder Outside the Lines Krista Davis 9/30/21

18. Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.

Mistletoe Cake Murder Lena Gregory 10/17/21

19. Inconsistency
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.

The Case of the Waffling Warrants Rosie A. Point 10/2/21

20. Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
The Case of the Key Lime Crimes Rosie A. Point 10/5/21

21. The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.

Was stated to the sheriff on the phone. Well-Offed in Vermont Amy Patricia Meade 10/6/21 (view spoiler)


message 7: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 133 comments Nell, does the challenge start right away or on 9/22? Thanks!


message 8: by Cheryl A. (last edited Aug 08, 2022 05:13PM) (new)

Cheryl A. (teddi1961) * Sounds fun!


This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).

>Wretched Wool Wretched Wool (Cozy Corgi Mysteries, #20) by Mildred Abbott by Mildred Abbott


Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
>


False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).

> A Quiet Life in the Country A Quiet Life in the Country (Lady Hardcastle Mysteries, #1) by T.E. Kinsey by T.E. Kinsey


Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)

>


Circular Argument.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.

>A Caterer's Guide to Holidays & Homicide A Caterer's Guide to Holidays & Homicide (Caterer's Guide to Crime Book 2) by Jessica Thompson byJessica Thompson


Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
>


Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
>


Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.

The Secret of Logan Pond The Secret of Logan Pond (A Cat in the Attic #4) by Kathi Daley byKathi Daley

Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).

The Mystery Before Christmas The Mystery Before Christmas (Cat in the Attic, #2) by Kathi Daley by Kathi Daley

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.

>Mystic Pieces Mystic Pieces (Shady Grove Psychic Mystery #1) by Ada Bell by Ada Bell


Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).

Sisters Sisters (Sun Valley #1) by Kellie Coates Gilbert by Kellie Coates Gilbert


Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
>


Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
>


Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
>


Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
>


Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
> Class Reunions Are Murder Class Reunions Are Murder (A Poppy McAllister Mystery #1) by Libby Klein by Libby Klein


Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
>


Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
>


Inconsistency
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
>


Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
>


The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
>

*


message 9: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Tari wrote: "Nell, does the challenge start right away or on 9/22? Thanks!"

You may start this challenge whenever you like.


message 10: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 133 comments Nell wrote: "Tari wrote: "Nell, does the challenge start right away or on 9/22? Thanks!"

You may start this challenge whenever you like."


Ok, cool! Thanks, Nell!


message 11: by Michelle (last edited Dec 12, 2021 05:50AM) (new)

Michelle Munger | 230 comments I’m in... this looks fun!

This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Finished 12/11/21

1. Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer). The Medium Place by Erin Huss Finished 10/04/21 MC was ran off the road and vehicle flipped over


2. Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover. An Eggnog to Die for by Amy Pershing An Eggnog to Die for (Cape Cod Foodie Mystery #2) by Amy Pershing
Finished 12/11/21


3. False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Frozen Stiff by Annelise Ryan
Finished 10/28/21

4. Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.) Lucky Stiff by Annelise Ryan Finished 11/12/21


5. Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') State of the Onion (A White House Chef Mystery, #1) by Julie Hyzy State of the Onion by Julie Hyzy The plates are circular. Finished 10/16/21


6. Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence. Here Comes the Fudge (Candy Coated, #9) by Nancy CoCo Here Comes the Fudge by Nancy CoCo Finished 10/01/21


7. Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover. Farm to Trouble by Amanda Flower A Pug named Huckleberry!! Finished 10/19/21


8. Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
Christmas Cloches and Corpses: A Ghostly Fashionista Mystery by Gayle Leeson Finished 10/08/21

9. Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork by Rose Pressey Betancourt Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork by Rose Pressey Finished 11/05/21

10. Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
The Dead Cat Bounce by Sarah Graves Finished 10/31/21


11. Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Draw and Order by Cheryl Hollon Finished 11/11/21


12. Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
'Twas the Knife Before Christmas by Jacqueline Frost Finished 11/12/21


13. Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Murder at the Beacon Bakeshop by Darci Hannah Finished 11/21/21 poisoned by cyanide


14. Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class. Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series. Slay in Character by Lynn Cahoon Finished 10/22/21


15. Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern. Mrs. Morris and the Ghost (A Salem B&B Mystery, #1) by Traci Wilton Mrs. Morris and the Ghost by Traci Wilton Finished 10/20/21


16. Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
The Cider Shop Rules by Julie Anne Lindsey Finished 10/18/21


17. Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
#2 The Skeleton Takes a Bow (Family Skeleton Mystery #2) by Leigh Perry The Skeleton Takes a Bow by Leigh Perry Finished 11/04/21

18. Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you. Some Hauntings Never Go Out of Fashion: Book 8 by Rose Betancourt Finished 11/02/21


19. Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.


20. Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
Ghost Mortem by Jane Hinchey Finished 11/07/21


21. The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
The Mummy Case by Elizabeth Peters Finished 11/05/21

reply | flag *

message 2: by Nell (last edited 5 hours, 43 min ago) 15 hours, 39 min ago
Nell | 2548 comments
Mod
To participate: Copy and paste the list of fallacies and tasks.

Your name in msg 3 will become a link to your challenge post.

Duration: Open

Challenge Rules:
One book per task.
One task per book. (If a book fits multiple tasks, pick one.)
Books can be any genre, but cozies are preferred.
Books must be at least 125 pages.
When the task requires a specific cover item, post the cover.

Please remember to mark spoilers.

Primary Sources:
https://thebestschools.org/magazine/1...

https://www.txstate.edu/philosophy/re...

reply | flag *


message 12: by Meg (last edited Dec 03, 2021 08:37PM) (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 1534 comments Fallacies
Oct 01, 2021 - Open

Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Agatha Raisin and the Fairies of Fryfam (Agatha Raisin, #10) by M.C. Beaton Agatha Raisin and the Fairies of Fryfam

Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
A Good Day for Chardonnay (Sunshine Vicram, #2) by Darynda Jones A Good Day for Chardonnay

False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
The Scam (Fox and O'Hare, #4) by Janet Evanovich The Scam

Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief.
Suck It Up, Buttercup (First Fangs Club, #2) by Kristen Painter Suck It Up, Buttercup

Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O')
The Ghostly Groundskeeper (Tess and Tilly #12) by Kathi Daley The Ghostly Groundskeeper

Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
Reunion and Revenge (The Mystery Sisters, #1) by Karen Musser Nortman Reunion and Revenge

Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
A Fright to the Death (A Family Fortune Mystery, #3) by Dawn Eastman A Fright to the Death

Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name (Amanda Quick)
The Lady Has a Past (Burning Cove, #5) by Amanda Quick The Lady Has A Past

Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting). (Whole town invited to wedding; majority shows up)
Till Death Do Us Tart (A Bakeshop Mystery #8) by Ellie Alexander Till Death Do Us Tart

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
Halloween Hayride Murder (Small Town Minnesota #1) by Linnea West Halloween Hayride Murder

Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Devil's Food (Corinna Chapman, #3) by Kerry Greenwood Devil's Food

Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Some Like It Haute Style in a Small Town #4 by Diane Vallere Some Like It Haute

Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
A Poisoned Season (Lady Emily, #2) by Tasha Alexander A Poisoned Season, Tasha Alexander 11/16

Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
Back Stabbers (The Country Club Murders, #8) by Julie Mulhern Back Stabbers

Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
Southern Bred and Dead (Southern Ghost Hunter Mysteries, #9) by Angie Fox Southern Bred and Dead

Is Ought Fallacy
Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago
The Curse of Braeburn Castle (Heathcliff Lennox #3) by Karen Baugh Menuhin The Curse of Braeburn Castle

Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof.
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false.
Dig Deep for Murder (Manor House Mystery #4) by Kate Kingsbury Dig Deep for Murder

Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
Murder With a View (A House-Flipper Mystery Book 3) by Diane Kelly Murder With a View

Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
Santa Sleuth (Zoe Donovan Mystery #18) by Kathi Daley Santa Sleuth

Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret
Lighthouse Cottage (Pajaro Bay, #3) by Barbara Cool Lee Lighthouse Cottage

The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
Boston Scream Murder (A Deputy Donut Mystery #4) by Ginger Bolton Boston Scream Murder


message 13: by Zermeena (last edited Dec 31, 2021 05:58AM) (new)

Zermeena | 725 comments I'm in for this challenge.
This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Duration: Open

Challenge Rules:
One book per task.
One task per book. (If a book fits multiple tasks, pick one.)
Books can be any genre, but cozies are preferred.
Books must be at least 125 pages.
When the task requires a specific cover item, post the cover.

Please remember to mark spoilers.

Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Murder Melts in Your Mouth by Nancy Martin
Murder Melts in Your Mouth (Blackbird Sisters Mystery, #7) by Nancy Martin
12/29/21


Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Espressos, Eggnogs, and Evil Exes by Harper Lin
Espressos, Eggnogs, and Evil Exes (A Cape Bay Cafe Mystery #7) by Harper Lin
10/17/21


False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Crochet and Cauldrons by Nancy Warren
Crochet and Cauldrons (Vampire Knitting Club #3) by Nancy Warren
10/28/21


Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
Ghost Wanted by Carolyn G. Hart
Ghost Wanted (Bailey Ruth #5) by Carolyn G. Hart
11/22/21

Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.
Cremas, Christmas Cookies, and Crooks by Harper Lin
Cremas, Christmas Cookies, and Crooks (A Cape Bay Cafe Mystery #6) by Harper Lin
10/14/21


Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
Cross Your Heart and Hope to Die by Nancy Martin
Cross Your Heart and Hope to Die (Blackbird Sisters Mystery, #4) by Nancy Martin
9/23/21


Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
Murder on the House by Juliet Blackwell
Murder on the House (Haunted Home Renovation Mystery, #3) by Juliet Blackwell
10/8/21


Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
Lye in Wait by Cricket McRae
Lye in Wait (Home Crafting Mystery, #1) by Cricket McRae
12/8/21


Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
Duck the Halls by Donna Andrews
Duck the Halls (Meg Langslow, #16) by Donna Andrews
12/21/21


Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
Knitty Gritty Murder by Peggy Ehrhart
Knitty Gritty Murder (A Knit & Nibble Mystery Book 7) by Peggy Ehrhart
12/16/21


Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Dead Bolt by Juliet Blackwell
Dead Bolt (A Haunted Home Renovation Mystery #2) by Juliet Blackwell
10/3/21


Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Death with All the Trimmings by Lucy Burdette
Death with All the Trimmings (Key West Food Critic Mystery, #5) by Lucy Burdette
11/8/21


Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Pushing up Daisies by M.C. Beaton
Pushing up Daisies (Agatha Raisin, #27) by M.C. Beaton
11/1/21


Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
Fatal Reservations by Lucy Burdette
Fatal Reservations (Key West Food Critic Mystery, #6) by Lucy Burdette
11/16/21


Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
Naughty in Nice by Rhys Bowen
Naughty in Nice (Her Royal Spyness Mysteries, #5) by Rhys Bowen
9/28/21


Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
Historical novel:
The Hippopotamus Pool by Elizabeth Peters
The Hippopotamus Pool (Amelia Peabody, #8) by Elizabeth Peters
10/31/21


Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
Knit of the Living Dead by Peggy Ehrhart
Knit of the Living Dead (A Knit & Nibble Mystery #6) by Peggy Ehrhart
12/11/21

Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
Death by Dumpling by Vivien Chien
Death by Dumpling (A Noodle Shop Mystery, #1) by Vivien Chien
12/3/21

Inconsistency
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
The Vineyard Victims by Ellen Crosby
The Vineyard Victims (Wine Country Mysteries, #8) by Ellen Crosby
12/4/21


Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
A Deadly Edition by Victoria Gilbert
A Deadly Edition (Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #5) by Victoria Gilbert
10/10/20


The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused
Boston Scream Murder by Ginger Bolton
Boston Scream Murder (Deputy Donut Mystery, #4) by Ginger Bolton
11/28/21


message 14: by Julesy (last edited Dec 20, 2021 08:21AM) (new)

Julesy | 409 comments Logical FALL-acies Challenge

Start: Sept. 20, End: Dec. 20
Progress: 21/21

This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

🍂Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Terrible Typhoid Mary: A True Story of the Deadliest Cook in America by Susan Campbell Bartoletti - Mary is threatened to be thrown in jail if she does not provide the scientists with specimens when she is suspected as a healthy carrier of typhoid fever - Sept. 26

🍂Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Death of an Italian Chef (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery, #14) by Lee Hollis Death of an Italian Chef by Lee Hollis - Dec. 20

🍂False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Ghosts, Private Eyes & Dead Guys by Jennifer Fischetto - Oct. 8

🍂Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty - Oct. 11

🍂Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.
Guts (Smile, #3) by Raina Telgemeier Guts by Raina Telgemeier - Sept. 26

🍂Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
Death Under the Sea by Rosalie Spielman - Nov. 7

🍂Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
One Dog and His Boy by Eva Ibbotson One Dog and His Boy by Eva Ibbotson - Nov. 1

🍂Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O'Connor - Oct. 17

🍂Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
Smile by Raina Telgemeier - parties and dances - Sept. 20

🍂Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
Clotho the Fate by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams - Nov. 19

🍂Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Trophy Hunt by C.J. Box - Sept. 25

🍂Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Drama by Raina Telgemeier - middle school puts on a musical while there is teen drama among the MC and students - Sept. 24

🍂Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Death of a Wicked Witch by Lee Hollis - Oct. 14

🍂Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
The Haunted Showboat by Carolyn Keene - Nov. 10

🍂Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
The Gallery by Laura Marx Fitzgerald - Sept. 28

🍂Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
The D(ea)dh(ou)se by Linda F(ai)rst(ei)n - Oct. 3

🍂Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
Deceit in High Heels by Gemma Halliday - Dec. 5

🍂Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
Halloween Party Murder by Leslie Meier - Oct. 29

🍂Inconsistency
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
Murder Gets a Makeover by Laura Levine - Oct. 26

🍂Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
The Gallery by Laura Marx Fitzgerald - Sept. 28

🍂The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
The Curse of the Black Cat by Carolyn Keene - Nancy accuses one of the students of being responsible for the threatening curses at a boarding school - Oct. 10


message 15: by Shelly (last edited Feb 09, 2022 05:41PM) (new)

Shelly | 106 comments FINISHED!

LOGICAL FALLACIES

09/17/21 - OPEN ENDED
COMPLETED 02/09/22

21/21 COMPLETE

🍎`Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Engaged in Death - Stephanie Blackmoore 09/27/21 Mallory Shepard, the M.C. Is attacked
Engaged in Death (Wedding Planner Mystery #1) by Stephanie Blackmoore


🎃Strawman:
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Partners in Lime - Bree Baker 10/13/21 Iced Tea in tipped over mason jar.
Partners in Lime (Seaside Café Mysteries, #6) by Bree Baker


🎃False Dilemma:
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group). A Cast-Off Coven - Juliet Blackwell 10/10/21 Lily’s friends help her banish a demon.
A Cast-Off Coven (A Witchcraft Mystery, #2) by Juliet Blackwell


🎃Slippery Slope Fallacy:
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.) Stitches and Witches - Nancy Warren 10/03/21 A vampire knitting club. You must believe!
Stitches and Witches (Vampire Knitting Club #2) by Nancy Warren


🎃Circular Argument:
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O')
Owl Be Home for Christmas - Donna Andrews 10/05/21 Christmas ornament the owl has.
Owl Be Home for Christmas (Meg Lanslow, #26) by Donna Andrews


🎃Hasty Generalization:
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
Something Read, Something Dead - Eva Gates 10/25/21
Lucy’s cousin, Josie is accused
Something Read, Something Dead (Lighthouse Library Mystery, #5) by Eva Gates


🦃Red Herring Fallacy:
-Read a book where the MC has a dog.
That Touch of Ink - Diane Vallere 11/04/21 Madison has Rocky a Shitz Tsu
That Touch of Ink (Mad for Mod Mystery, #2) by Diane Vallere


🎃Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee):
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress - Traci Wilton 10/29/21 - AVERY is 17
Mrs. Morris and the Sorceress (A Salem B&B Mystery #4) by Traci Wilton


🍎Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting). Key West Win & Food Festival: Topped Chef Lucy Burdette 09/22/21
Topped Chef (Key West Food Critic Mystery #3) by Lucy Burdette


🎃Fallacy of Sunk Costs:
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
Two Wicked Desserts - Lynn Cahoon 10/21/21 Mia is renovating the school building she bought.
Two Wicked Desserts (Kitchen Witch Mysteries, #2) by Lynn Cahoon



🎅🏻Appeal to Authority:
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor). Mrs. Claus and the Halloween Homicide - Liz Ireland 12/06/21 Mrs. April Claus, married to Santa and manages the staff at Castle Kringle
Mrs. Claus and the Halloween Homicide (Mrs. Claus #2) by Liz Ireland


🦃Equivocation:
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Seven Deadly Sequins - Julie Anne Lindsey 11/14/21 (SEVEN DEADLY SINS)
Seven Deadly Sequins (Bonnie & Clyde Mysteries Book 2) by Julie Anne Lindsey


🎃Poisoning the Well:
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Pumpkins in Paradise - Kathi Daley 10/31/21 (view spoiler)
Pumpkins in Paradise (TJ Jensen Mystery #1) by Kathi Daley


💖Undistributed Middle:
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
Due or Die - Jenn McKinlay 02/-5/22
Due or Die (Library Lover's Mystery, #2) by Jenn McKinlay

🦃Appeal to Pity:
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate. Kernel of Truth - Kristi Abbott 11/30/21
Kernel of Truth (Popcorn Shop Mystery #1) by Kristi Abbott


✅Is Ought Fallacy:
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
🍎-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.) - Fields' Guide to Abduction - Julie Mulhern 09/18/21 So many!
Fields' Guide to Abduction (Poppy Fields Adventures #1) by Julie Mulhern

🎅🏻Questionable Cause:
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) On What Grounds - Cleo Coyle 12/02/21
On What Grounds (Coffeehouse Mystery, #1) by Cleo Coyle


💖Appeal to Ignorance:
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
Meet Your Baker - Ellie Alexander 02/09/22
Meet Your Baker (A Bakeshop Mystery, #1) by Ellie Alexander

🦃Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi. - The Pint of No Return - Ellie Alexander 11/25/21 - KAT
The Pint of No Return (A Sloan Krause Mystery, #2) by Ellie Alexander


🦃Faulty Analogy:
-Read a book where a primary character. - Murder Outside the Lines - Krista Davis 11/19/21 (view spoiler)
Murder Outside the Lines (Pen & Ink Mysteries #3) by Krista Davis


🦃The Fallacy Fallacy:
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused. - Ukulele Murder - Leslie Langtry 11/28/21 - Nani and her friends discuss suspects
Ukulele Murder (Aloha Lagoon Mysteries #1) by Leslie Langtry


message 16: by Nell (last edited Jan 15, 2022 03:54AM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
LOGICAL FALLACIES
Cozy Mystery Corner Challenge

This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Ad hominem
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off.

A Dead Husband by Anna Celeste Burke - MC attacked multiple times!
A Dead Husband (Jessica Huntington, #1) by Anna Celeste Burke

Strawman
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with a straw) on the cover.

The Coloring Crook (Pen & Ink Mysteries, #2) by Krista Davis - glass of orange juice with ice & a straw

False Dilemma
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime.

Assault and Beret by Jenn McKinlay
Assault and Beret (Hat Shop Mystery, #5) by Jenn McKinlay

Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief.

Up in Smoke by Shannon VanBergen
Up in Smoke (Glock Grannies #1) by Shannon VanBergen

Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover

Aunty Lee's Chilled Revenge by Ovidia Yu
Aunty Lee's Chilled Revenge (Singaporean Mystery #3) by Ovidia Yu

Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.

Fatal Cajun Festival by Ellen Byron
Fatal Cajun Festival (Cajun Country Mystery #5) by Ellen Byron

Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.

Buried to the Brim (Hat Shop Mystery, #6) by Jenn McKinlay

Tu Quoque
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.

The Frangipani Tree Mystery by Ovidia Yu - MC is sixteen
The Frangipani Tree Mystery (Crown Colony #1) by Ovidia Yu

Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers.

Copy Cap Murder by Jenn McKinlay
Copy Cap Murder (Hat Shop Mystery, #4) by Jenn McKinlay

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind.
Murder in Hyde Park by Lee Strauss - fashion show
Murder in Hyde Park (Ginger Gold Mysteries #12) by Lee Strauss

Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization.

Miss Zukas and the Library Murders by Jo Dereske - Chief of Police Gallant
Miss Zukas and the Library Murders (Miss Zukas, #1) by Jo Dereske

Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.

Owl Be Home for Christmas by Donna Andrews
Owl Be Home for Christmas (Meg Lanslow, #26) by Donna Andrews

Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.

Yews with Caution by Kate Collins
Yews with Caution (A Flower Shop Mystery, #19) by Kate Collins

Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series

Playing with Fire by J.J. Cook - Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade #2 of 3
Playing with Fire (Sweet Pepper Fire Brigade Mystery, #2) by J.J. Cook

Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate &
-Read a book where a person is the object of concern.

Buried Bones by Carolyn Haines - MC's dog is stabbed.
Buried Bones (Sarah Booth Delaney #2) by Carolyn Haines

Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels

A Danger(ou)s Collaborat(io)n by D(ea)nna Rayb(ou)rn
A Dangerous Collaboration (Veronica Speedwell, #4) by Deanna Raybourn

Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: ...why.

Why Mermaids Sing by C.S. Harris
Why Mermaids Sing (Sebastian St. Cyr, #3) by C.S. Harris

Appeal to Ignorance
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.

The Betel Nut Tree Mystery by Ovidia Yu
The Betel Nut Tree Mystery (Crown Colony #2) by Ovidia Yu

Inconsistency
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.

Murder Knocks Twice by Susanna Calkins
Murder Knocks Twice (Speakeasy Mystery #1) by Susanna Calkins

Faulty Analogy
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret and discovers a secret about someone they think they know.

A Study in Scarlet Women by Sherry Thomas
A Study in Scarlet Women (Lady Sherlock, #1) by Sherry Thomas

The Fallacy Fallacy
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person...

Shucked Apart by Barbara Ross
Shucked Apart (A Maine Clambake Mystery #9) by Barbara Ross


message 17: by Linda (last edited Dec 13, 2021 06:38AM) (new)

Linda (rudylkr) | 715 comments LOGICAL FALLACIES

9/20/21 - 12/11/21
21/21


Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Bleeding Tarts Bleeding Tarts (Pie Town Mystery #2) by Kirsten Weiss 9/22/21


Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Tide and Punishment Tide and Punishment (Seaside Café Mystery, #3) by Bree Baker 12/11/21


False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Murder Lo Mein Murder Lo Mein (A Noodle Shop Mystery, #3) by Vivien Chien 11/9/21


Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
The Ghost and the Haunted Portrait The Ghost and the Haunted Portrait (Haunted Bookshop Mystery, #7) by Cleo Coyle 10/18/21


Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.
Death by Diamonds Death by Diamonds (A Vintage Magic Mystery, #3) by Annette Blair 10/6/21


Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
Pulp Friction Pulp Friction (A Cider Shop Mystery, #2) by Julie Anne Lindsey 10/9/21

Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
The Pajama Frame The Pajama Frame (Mad for Mod Mystery #5) by Diane Vallere 9/24/21


Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.
Till Death Do Us Pot: A Flower Shop Mystery Fall Novella Till Death Do Us Pot A Flower Shop Mystery Fall Novella by Kate Collins 10/28/21


Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
A Roux of Revenge A Roux of Revenge (Soup Lover's Mystery, #3) by Connie Archer (festival) 10/6/21


Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
Bodice of Evidence Bodice of Evidence (Perfect Proposals Mystery #2) by Nancy J. Parra (Pepper planned 2 successful proposals) 9/30/21


Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
Of Spice and Men Of Spice and Men (Pancake House Mystery #3) by Sarah Fox 10/18/21


Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Owls Well That Ends Well Owls Well That Ends Well (Meg Langslow, #6) by Donna Andrews 10/12/21


Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
Sew Deadly Sew Deadly (A Southern Sewing Circle, #1) by Elizabeth Lynn Casey 11/11/21


Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class.
Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
This Old Murder This Old Murder (Josie Pigeon, #4) by Valerie Wolzien 11/2/21


Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
Foul Play at the Fair Foul Play at the Fair (Celebration Bay, #1) by Shelley Freydont 10/15/21


Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
The Cider Shop Rules by Julie Anne Lindsey The Cider Shop Rules (A Cider Shop Mystery, #3) by Julie Anne Lindsey 10/27/21


Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
Ghastly Glass Ghastly Glass (A Renaissance Faire Mystery, #2) by Joyce Lavene 10/30/21


Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
French Fried French Fried (Ethnic Eats Mystery #2) by Kylie Logan 10/3/21


Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
Italian Iced Italian Iced (Ethnic Eats Mystery #3) by Kylie Logan 10/24/21


Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
The Wolfe Widow The Wolfe Widow (Book Collector Mystery, #3) by Victoria Abbott 9/27/21


The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
Boston Scream Murder Boston Scream Murder (Deputy Donut Mystery, #4) by Ginger Bolton 10/21/21


message 18: by Shelly (new)

Shelly | 106 comments Hi Nell,
Thank you for the great challenges!

My name in msg. 3 does’t link to my challenge post. Thank you


message 19: by Nell (last edited Sep 29, 2021 06:59PM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Shelly wrote: "Hi Nell,
Thank you for the great challenges!

My name in msg. 3 does’t link to my challenge post. Thank you"


Mine doesn't either. It will eventually. 😊


message 20: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments question about the vowel challenge. Do they have to be in order (ae, io) or can they be in any order like pie or die?


message 21: by Helen (last edited Jan 14, 2022 05:57PM) (new)

Helen (helennn) | 1020 comments I’m in, even though I’m still working on the summer challenge. This one sounds like fun.
21/21
This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Shakespeare's Landlord (Lily Bard, #1) by Charlaine Harris


Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Murder at the PTA Luncheon (Susan Henshaw Book 1) by Valerie Wolzien

False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Aunt Bessie's Holiday (Isle of Man #8) by Diana Xarissa


Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)
Twisted 26 by Janet Evanovich
Most if what happens to Stephanie Plum is improbable!

Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.
S'more Murders (A Five-Ingredient Mystery #5) by Maya Corrigan

Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.
A Christmas Cruise Murder (A Rachel Prince Mystery Book 5) by Dawn Brookes

Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.
How the Light Gets In (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, #9) by Louise Penny

Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.

The Square Root of Murder (Sophie Knowles, #1) by Camille Minichino

Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).
Shakespeare's Champion (Lily Bard, #2) by Charlaine Harris

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams

Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).
State of Wonder by Ann Patchett


Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.
Murderous Cruise Habit (A Rachel Prince Mystery Book 6) by Dawn Brookes , where the word habit refers both to the MC’s habit of solving murders on cruises, and an order of nuns on the cruise.


Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.
A Village Murder (The Ham-Hill Murder Mysteries, #1) by Frances Evesham


Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class.
Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.
Shakespeare's Christmas (Lily Bard, #3) by Charlaine Harris

Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
Midwife On The Orient Express A Christmas Miracle by Fiona McArthur

Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.
What Could Possibly Go Wrong? (The Chronicles of St Mary's, #6) by Jodi Taylor

Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.
The Secluded Village Murders by Shelly Frome

Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.
Aunt Bessie Joins (Isle of Man #10) by Diana Xarissa

Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.
Their Lost Daughters (DI Jackman & DS Evans, #2) by Joy Ellis j

The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.
The Long Way Home (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache, #10) by Louise Penny


message 22: by Nell (last edited Sep 28, 2021 04:41AM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
QNPoohBear wrote: "question about the vowel challenge. Do they have to be in order (ae, io) or can they be in any order like pie or die?"

Vowels can be in any order but must be consecutive. Both pie and die work.


message 23: by Nell (last edited Sep 29, 2021 07:03PM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Helen wrote: "I’m in, even though I’m still working on the summer challenge. This one sounds like fun..."

So am I. In fact, I finished last Fall's Apple Challenge earlier this month! Just in time for this fall. 😃 Done is Done!


message 24: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Nell wrote: "QNPoohBear wrote: "question about the vowel challenge. Do they have to be in order (ae, io) or can they be in any order like pie or die?"

Vowels can be in any order but must be consecutive. Both p..."


Thank you!


message 25: by Genevieve (last edited Feb 07, 2022 10:54AM) (new)

Genevieve | 22 comments Duration: Open

Challenge Rules:
One book per task.
One task per book. (If a book fits multiple tasks, pick one.)
Books can be any genre, but cozies are preferred.
Books must be at least 125 pages.
When the task requires a specific cover item, post the cover.




This challenge is based on some common logical fallacies:

Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).
Killer in Crinolines by Duffy Brown 10/4/2021

Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.
Southern Potions (Sweet Tea Witch Mysteries #9) by Amy Boyles by Amy Boyles 10/20/2021

False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).
Norway to Hide by Maddy Hunter 10/18/2021

Slippery Slope Fallacy
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.) A ghost helping pick patterns to make.
A Killing Notion by Melissa Bourbon 10/11/2021

Circular Argument
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.


Hasty Generalization
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.

Red Herring Fallacy
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.

Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name
Queen Elizabeth II: A Birthday Souvenir Album by Jane Roberts 10/5/2021

Bandwagon Fallacy
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.

Appeal to Authority
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).

Equivocation
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.

Poisoning the Well
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.

Undistributed Middle
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.

Appeal to Pity
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.

Is Ought Fallacy
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)

Questionable Cause
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.


Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.


Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.


Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.


The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. Accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused


message 26: by Jordan (last edited Oct 21, 2021 11:17AM) (new)

Jordan | 5 comments There are interesting I didn't realize some of these types of arguments had specific names.

Logical FALLacies Challange

Ad hominem
Personal attacks against the one making the argument rather than the argument itself. Ad hominem is Latin for “against the man.”
-Read a book where the MC is attacked, threatened, or warned off (ex: rock through the window, threatening note or phone call, pursued or harmed by killer).

Strawman
Arguing against an oversimplified or otherwise distorted version of the opponent's position.
-Read a book that has a cold drink (with or without a straw) on the cover.

False Dilemma
An argument that assumes there are only two options or outcomes when there are other alternatives.
-Read a mystery where two or more people team up to solve a crime (ex: partners, friends, book club, craft group).

Slippery Slope Fallacy
Claiming that a single event will inevitably give rise to a chain of future events leading to an extreme (and usually undesirable) conclusion. The slippery slope fallacy suggests without evidence that unlikely or ridiculous outcomes are likely to occur.
-Read a book where something improbable happens and you have to suspend disbelief. (ex: Junior cook has private audiences with the Queen.)

Circular Argument
Uses its own conclusion as its premise, and vice versa. Also called Begging the Question. Ex: “If A is true because B is true; B is true because A is true.” The conclusion appears at both the beginning and end of the argument creating an endless circle.
-Read a book with a circular object on the cover (NOT including the letter 'O') OR
-Read a book where the title is a question.

Hasty Generalization
An argument based on insufficient evidence often caused by a sample that is too small or not representative of the whole population. Ex: Proclaiming "Everyone from [City K] is rude" after meeting 3 people.
-Read a mystery where there is a rush to judgment (someone is quickly accused) and the MC tries to prove their innocence.

Red Herring Fallacy
Diverts discussion from the main argument by changing the subject or bringing up irrelevant points. The phrase comes from the use of red herring as a training device for testing how well a hunting dog could track a scent without getting distracted and confused.
-Read a book where the MC has a dog and/or with a dog on the cover.

Tu Quoque (pronounced tu-'kwoh-kwee)
Latin for “you too,” makes an allegation against the opponent. "Look who's talking" is a childish response some don't grow out of.
-Read a book with the letters Q & U in the title or name of series or author's name OR
-Read a book where one of the characters is a child or teenager.

Bandwagon Fallacy
Assumes something is true (or right, or good) because other people agree with it. Popularity alone is not a good indication that the acceptance is justified. People can be quite gullible.
-Read a book containing a scene where a large group gathers (ex: concert, festival, town meeting).

Fallacy of Sunk Costs
Continuing with a task or project despite disappointing results because of all that one has put into it, without considering the future costs likely incurred by going forward.
-Read a book where the MC is working on a project of any kind (ex: home improvement, craft, at work, community event). Project may or may not be successful.

Appeal to Authority
By using an authority, the argument is relying on testimony, not facts. Testimony can be strong or weak. Expert opinion may be incorrect; irrelevant authorities, poor authorities or false authorities may be cited.
-Read a book where a key character is someone in a position of authority in an organization (ex: owner, employer, supervisor).

Equivocation
When a word, phrase, or sentence is used deliberately to confuse, deceive, or mislead by sounding like it’s saying one thing but actually saying something else. A "play on words" with a tone of deception often using euphemisms.
-Read a book with a title that is a play on words.

Poisoning the Well
Attempts to place opponent in a position from which they are unable to reply. The person cannot recover or defend themselves without making matters worse.
Ex: "Joan is all talk and no action." If Joan responds, it can reinforce the claim that she's all talk. If she doesn't respond, the accusation stands unchallenged.
-Read a mystery where a victim is poisoned.

Undistributed Middle
Three part argument in which the middle applies to some but not all of the class.
Ex: "All horses have four legs. All dogs have four legs. All horses are dogs." Both lines one and two are true but neither represents the whole class of four-legged beings. Thus the conclusion is wrong.
- Read a book in the middle of a series - NOT the newest release or first in series.

Appeal to Pity
This fallacy happens when we mistake feelings for facts. Appeals to emotion aren’t relevant to whether something is true or false. Truth and falsity are factual categories. They deal in what is and is not, regardless of how one feels about the matter.
-Read a book with a key character who is compassionate OR
-Read a book where a person or animal is the object of pity or concern.

Is Ought Fallacy
Assumes that because things are a certain way, they should stay that way. Or because something is not now occurring, it should not occur. Argues that the status quo should be maintained simply for its own sake.
-Read a historical novel - set 50 or more years ago OR
-Read a book with a word in the title or author's name that pairs two different vowels. (ex: 'ie', 'ea', 'ou', 'io', 'ai'.)
Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors By Annette Marie Date: 10/16/21

Questionable Cause
When a causal connection is assumed without proof. Assumes one event caused another without enough evidence (false cause) or because one event occurred after another (post hoc) or events occurred simultaneously (correlational).
-Read a book with a title that includes one of these basic questions: who, what, when, where, why, or how. (Must include the word.) OR
-Read a mystery where what was first assumed as the cause of the murder was false. (ex: Not C because of an argument, but F because of greed.) *Mark it as a spoiler if you share the reason.

Appeal to Ignorance
Claiming that a conclusion must be true, because there is no evidence against it. Wrongly shifts the burden of proof away from the one making the claim. An appeal to ignorance isn’t proof of anything except that you don’t know something.
-Read a mystery where the identity of the killer was obvious to you.

Inconsistency
A person commits the fallacy of inconsistency when s/he makes contradictory claims.
-Read a mystery where a suspect changes their story/alibi.

Faulty Analogy
This fallacy consists in assuming that because two things are alike in one or more respects, they are necessarily alike in some other respect. Ex: Person calls cell number late at night. No one answers. Sends text: "How can you run a business when clients can't reach you?" Caller is not a client and call was not during business hours.
-Read a book where a primary character has a secret or discovers a secret about someone they think they know.

The Fallacy Fallacy
Just because someone's argument relies on a fallacy doesn't necessarily mean that their claim is untrue. The argument may be weak, but it isn't necessarily wrong.
- Read a book where the MC accuses the wrong person, even if they get it right in the end. The accusation must be stated (ex: to friend, spouse, detective). Does not have to be a confrontation with the accused.


message 27: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Jordan wrote: "There are interesting I didn't realize some of these types of arguments had specific names. ..."

I had heard of some of the names but not others. It was fun to learn them.

Plus I'm less likely to get drawn into an argument now that I can see the fallacy. 🙂


message 28: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 133 comments Msg 6 updated: finished


message 29: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Tari wrote: "Msg 6 updated: finished"

Wow! Congratulations! I did not guess the murderer in Mistletoe Cake Murder (view spoiler)


message 30: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Great job Tari!


message 31: by Helen (last edited Oct 21, 2021 04:07AM) (new)

Helen (helennn) | 1020 comments Well done, Tari.


message 32: by Meg (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 1534 comments You go, Tari!


message 33: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Nell wrote: "Meg wrote: "You go, Tari!""

Love your zombie avatar! Getting into the season. 👻🎃


message 34: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 133 comments Thanks PoohBear, Helen, Meg and Nell! Oh I love your Snoopy too, Meg!


message 35: by Helen (new)

Helen (helennn) | 1020 comments I’ve passed the halfway point. I just posted my 11th book.


message 36: by Nell (last edited Nov 07, 2021 08:46AM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Great progress Helen!

Shakespeare's Landlord looks like an interesting read... and it's in my TBR.


message 37: by Meg (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 1534 comments It took awhile but I think I'm done! See #12.


message 38: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Congrats Meg.


message 39: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Meg wrote: "It took awhile but I think I'm done! See #12."

woohoo! Congrats! I'm stuck on cold drink!


message 40: by Linda (new)

Linda (rudylkr) | 715 comments QNPoohBear wrote: "Meg wrote: "It took awhile but I think I'm done! See #12."

woohoo! Congrats! I'm stuck on cold drink!"


That’s where I’m at as well. I do have a book for it to read later this month. Normally it’s the hot drink I can never find and this time it’s a cold drink so now I’m thinking it’s just drinks in general I can’t find.


message 41: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments I found hot drinks but not cold. Wrong time of year.


message 42: by Julesy (new)

Julesy | 409 comments QNPoohBear wrote: "I found hot drinks but not cold. Wrong time of year."

Yep, I finally found one when I looked back at my summer TBR pile. 😁


message 43: by Meg (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 1534 comments Thanks!

And I'm in the camp that has a hard time finding cold drinks. This book from a favorite author was fortunately released this year so I was doing a happy dance.


message 44: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Other than cold drink, I'm done, just in time for winter. I don't see any cold drinks in my TBR pile but I'll keep looking.


message 45: by Helen (new)

Helen (helennn) | 1020 comments I found a cold drink on my kindle, but it’s not a series I’ll be eager to continue.


message 46: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Helen wrote: "I found a cold drink on my kindle, but it’s not a series I’ll be eager to continue."

At least it was good for something. 😏


message 47: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments Does champagne count as a cold drink? I read
God Rest Ye, Royal Gentlemen by Rhys Bowen
(Georgie and Darcy are holding champagne)
and that's the closest I can get to cold drink. I keep looking.


message 48: by Nell (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
QNPoohBear wrote: "Does champagne count as a cold drink? I read
God Rest Ye, Royal Gentlemen by Rhys Bowen
(Georgie and Darcy are holding champagne)
and that's the closest I can get to cold drink. I keep looking."


Champagne counts as a cold drink. Yes.

What did you think of the newest Royal Spyness?


message 49: by QNPoohBear (new)

QNPoohBear | 1194 comments I really liked God Rest Ye, Royal Gentlemen. It's heavy on the cozy in the first half with lots of Christmas cheer and charm. The murder happens on Boxing Day. I love the series best when Georgie is spying on her royal relative. Mummy comes along for Christmas and trades barbs with Wallis Simpson. It's not real history but it's fun.

And with that book, I conclude the challenge just as the last leaves have fallen of the trees and the snow is about to start!


message 50: by Nell (last edited Dec 09, 2021 04:05AM) (new)

Nell | 3402 comments Mod
Congratulations QNPB!

And thanks for the review. Her Royal Spyness is a fun series.


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