List of Logical Fallacies

Want to argue effectively? Want to be able to recognize a flawed argument?

Then this is ABSOLUTELY required reading.

I hate to say it, but many Malaysians, myself included, have almost no clue how to spot problems in the arguments of others or in their own arguments.

A problem in our education system perhaps? In the US, high school students have to take a couple of public speaking classes, which include elements of critical thinking and the ability to spot logical fallacies. Its the same in the UK. Imagine, these kids are taught how to make logically sound arguments and how to detect flawed ones. In Malaysia, many adults still don't know how. The Malaysian system of education seems to focus more on the accumulation of knowledge and information, and rather less on teaching us how to think critically.

Here's a challenge: take some time, maybe an hour or so, to read through and understand the link above. Then pick up any local newspaper and go through it, paying special attention to reports on things our elected officials have said in the news. You'll be surprised at how illogical some of their statements now seem.