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Logically Fallacious: The Ultimate Collection of Over 300 Logical Fallacies - Academic Edition

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This book is a crash course in effective reasoning, meant to catapult you into a world where you start to see things how they really are, not how you think they are. The focus of this book is on logical fallacies, which loosely defined, are simply errors in reasoning. With the reading of each page, you can make significant improvements in the way you reason and make decisions.Logically Fallacious is one of the most comprehensive collections of logical fallacies with all original examples and easy to understand descriptions, perfect for educators, debaters, or anyone who wants to improve his or her reasoning skills."Expose an irrational belief, keep a person rational for a day. Expose irrational thinking, keep a person rational for a lifetime." - Bo BennettThis 2021 Edition includes dozens of more logical fallacies with many updated examples.

460 pages, Paperback

First published February 22, 2012

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Bo Bennett

27 books51 followers

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5 stars
165 (28%)
4 stars
221 (38%)
3 stars
132 (23%)
2 stars
41 (7%)
1 star
12 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Laura Schmidt-Dockter.
57 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2017
I thought this book was hilarious and informative. I listened to it on audible which, I believe, made the technical explanations easier to take. Now I wish I had the actual book to use as a reference.
Profile Image for Rod Hilton.
151 reviews3,121 followers
September 29, 2013
I feel bad for not liking this book more than I did. The author, Bo Bennett, definitely knows his stuff about logical fallacies, and it's clear he realized that a book listing 300 logical fallacies would be boring, and he made his greatest efforts to make the material lively and interesting, largely by injecting a lot of humor into the book.

But at the end of the day, it's a book listing 300 fallacies, and it's a slog to get through them all. Yes, it's funny. Yes, it's informative. Yes, it's comprehensive. But no, it's not terribly interesting. Sorry Bo, you did your best.
Profile Image for R. F. Errant.
5 reviews
September 25, 2019
I have mixed feelings about this work. It's definitely encompassing, the examples are clear, and even the jokes are entertaining. However, the book proves that no matter how hard you try, when discussing logical fallacies, you eventually come off as a jerk.

Not really his fault. That's the nature of the subject. However, about two-thirds through I had to take to reading it in bits. Still, I recommend highly that everyone read at least one book on logical fallacies, and this could be the one for you.

One more thing. For self-promotion, the author a few times mentions Donald Trump endorsing him. (I presume it was before he became president and for another book.) When warning against logical fallacies I would not want a Trump endorsement, except as irony.
Profile Image for Sadan.
38 reviews48 followers
July 31, 2020
میشه گفت این کتاب جامع ترین منبع برای معرفی عنواع مغلطه هستش. لحن نسبتا طنز بو بنت و مثالای جالبش باعث شده بود که متن کتاب خشک و حوصله . سر بر نباشه
من ترجمه ی این کتابو از سایت آقای آذسن خوندم.

https://azsan.ir/blog/category/%d9%85...
12 reviews1 follower
April 25, 2018
After reading, I had no idea how this book ever made it past an editor and then to a publisher. This might be intriguing to a raw novice, but anyone with the slightest exposure to logic, rhetoric and philosophy will see the author frequently succumbs to the fallacies he condemns.




Then I found out that the author owns the company that published this book

Figures.....

Profile Image for Hamid.
136 reviews10 followers
August 10, 2019
Never realized there were so many fatal flaws in the way I reason until I read this amazing book. Very educational indeed with lots of examples to clarify the fallacious arguments. Although the format of the book is similar to a textbook, I didn't find it boring in the least. Bo Bennet's proper use of humor makes this book all the more fascinating. An easy read. It's a must read if you're a habitual debater or just want to explain the world around you in a more logical and reasonable way.
Profile Image for Max.
191 reviews146 followers
November 4, 2014
Most of them are already clear to any sensible person. But then again what is sensible? I have to admit that the author did keep a smooth sarcastic and jocular theme throughout the book, probably so it doesn't become tedious reading all these fallacies.

My favourite one of them has to be "Ad Fidentia", particularly when it is used to prove a supernatural existence, people just like throwing this at me whenever I argue about God.
Profile Image for Joseph.
7 reviews
July 17, 2016
A very extensive list of fallacies, this book lays them all out in clear English with excellent examples to help illustrate the way each fallacy is used. I have really enjoyed reading this book - it's an excellent option for when you only have a short amount of time to spend reading and, since fallacies are something everyone should be keen to avoid, the value of the content is enormous.
Profile Image for Grant Barnes.
285 reviews18 followers
April 1, 2023
As a logophile, student of rhetoric, and generally logical individual, I found the subject interesting. Ultimately, this is an encyclopedia of logical fallacies. Bennett made the topic as interested as he could by injecting as much humor as was appropriate, however, it is still somewhat dry.

Notes:
Logical fallacy simple definition: an error in reasoning

Logical fallacy thorough definition: a concept with an argumentation that commonly leads to an error in reasoning due to the deceptive nature of its presentation.

Factual errors are not logical fallacies

Each logical fallacy was explained by providing the following:
- Name(s)
- Description
- Logical form (an equation of sorts used to explain the fallacy)
- Examples
- Exceptions to the fallacy
- Tips
Favorite tip: “If you have a penis, don’t put it in the wood chipper.”

Some of my favorite logical fallacies:
Ad hominem: attacking the person making the argument vs the argument itself

Gambler’s Fallacy: reasoning that in a situation that is pure chance, the outcome can be affected by previous outcomes

Red herring: I deliberate diversion of attention with the intent to distract from the original argument

Self-selling or vacuous (meaningless) argument: an argument or position where no evidence can be brought against it.

Shoehorning: force-fitting some current affair into one’s personal, political, or religious agenda.
Profile Image for Arsalan.
13 reviews7 followers
July 13, 2021
تا جایی که فهمیدم یکی از ابزار اندیشه نقادانه، منطق هست اما برای اینکه استدلال های درست رو متوجه بشیم باید مغالطه های زبانی رو بدونیم چون تعدادشون بسیار زیاده و زبان ما هم داخلش پر از مغلطه هست!
این کتاب رو به شدت پیشنهاد میکنم تاثیر خیلی زیادی روی شیوه تفکر و حرف زدن داره
Profile Image for T Patrick.
2 reviews7 followers
November 27, 2012
This book is NOT for people trying to prove beliefs. It is an incite on how people think and their "justifications" for doing so.
Profile Image for Kevin Torre.
2 reviews
September 11, 2023
In the era of information overload, “Logically Fallacious” by Bo Bennett emerges as an indispensable guide to clear thinking, offering readers a navigational compass through the murky waters of fallacies and faulty reasoning. Bennett, with his incisive wit and profound understanding of logic, crafts a book that is both an educational manual and an engaging read.

At its core, “Logically Fallacious” is a comprehensive catalog of logical fallacies, but to pigeonhole it as a mere reference tool would be an injustice. Bennett delves deep, not just listing fallacies, but exploring their nuances, providing examples, and elucidating their practical implications. The way he presents each fallacy—with context, clear examples, and sometimes a touch of humor—makes the content accessible even to those who might be new to the realm of logical reasoning.

One of the standout features of this book is its relevance to our modern world. In an age where misinformation can spread like wildfire, Bennett equips readers with the tools to discern fact from fiction. Whether you are browsing social media, watching the news, or engaged in a debate, the lessons from this book can be applied almost universally.

Another commendable aspect of “Logically Fallacious” is its organization. Bennett doesn’t merely list fallacies alphabetically; he categorizes them in a way that is intuitive and aids in retention. The structure of the book allows for both linear reading and quick reference, making it a versatile tool for both learners and seasoned debaters.

However, what truly makes “Logically Fallacious” a standout is Bennett’s undeniable passion for the subject. His enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s evident that he genuinely wants his readers to become more astute thinkers. The tone is neither preachy nor condescending; instead, it’s like receiving guidance from a knowledgeable friend.

In conclusion, “Logically Fallacious” by Bo Bennett is a manual for the discerning mind, and an enjoyable read that educates as much as it entertains. In our times, when logical reasoning is both essential and seemingly rare, Bennett’s work stands out as a beacon of clarity. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone keen on sharpening your cognitive tools, this book is an invaluable addition to your library.
Profile Image for Numan Ahmad.
21 reviews8 followers
December 19, 2021
Who wouldn't wanna become a human fallacy detector!? Who wouldn't want the their reason and logic to be as sharp as a blade of diamond!? To spot Bulshit when u hear or see it .
It's a wonderful book for starters who want to be equiped with the knowledge to spot the so many fallacies commited by poeple and ourselves too ( knowingly or unknowingly). We can spot most of these fallacies and we know that there is something wrong in the logic presented,but just can't point it out for some reason ( the reason being we don't know how). The author Bo Bennett has tried his best to first elucidate the all kind of different fallacies and then also has given tips for how to get around them. The book is often boring, as it is logic we are talking about, especially the parts about formal fallacies , but nevertheless the author has tried his best to simplify and present them with a few humourous jokes here and there. If one can't read all the fallacies,, there's is a list at the end of 25 most often committed fallacies which should be known by everyone.
Profile Image for D.
797 reviews8 followers
April 6, 2020
Sorry sir, your book wasn't exactly a page turner. Some of his jokes can land a little off. On the subject of his jokes, I suspect they are consistent with his age, and his upbringing, but some aren't quite PC. However, all that having been said, it was a useful endeavor. I don't think I will recall most of the classifications. However, walking through the numerous examples and structures, I do think he has sharpened my eyes and ears for subtle arguments, made in sometimes simple statements, all of which fail to be proven by the argument made. I don't think I was a complete amateur, but the effort was worth it. I read this as an audiobook, so went from cover to cover, and that may not be the best route, but it worked for me.
Profile Image for Jonathan Gnagy.
51 reviews4 followers
April 25, 2019
I don't have much to say about this book that others haven't already said. Bo Bennett does his very best to make a book about 300+ logical fallacies (and their explanations) interesting, including bits of humor, anecdotes, concise explanations, and a simple format, but I think there's only so much that can be done to keep it interesting.

In the end, I'm not sure anyone could do much better.

I would definitely recommend the book to anyone even remotely interested in logic, debate, or reaching logical conclusions when in dialogue with others (especially with people that have a different opinion).
Profile Image for Pavel Urubčík.
41 reviews9 followers
February 21, 2019
Hesitated between 3 and 4 stars.
I definitely enjoyed the extensive list of fallacies with descriptions, examples and occasional humor.
On the other hand as others pointed out, the read was quite dry and lack of good grouping/organization of the fallacies also didn't add on readability. I wish there was some way either in the book or accompanying a web dictionary where I could look up the fallacies by key words and such.
I think it was also possible to make the book shorter by merging and omitting some fallacies.
Other than that pretty good read!
Profile Image for Paul.
596 reviews15 followers
July 1, 2021
I read this as an audiobook which I did not find bad, but I think in the end, this is more a reference book and it makes sense to have an ebook or physical book. I found 300 to be a huge number of fallacies; I'd have preferred fewer fallacies in groups. Some are so hard to distinguish. In the end, I understood the nature of the fallacies, but calling them out by name is a struggle. To dominate the subject, I'd say a couple reads are necessary and it can be at times a tedious read. Overall, I liked the book and the subject.
2 reviews
August 30, 2021
This is a marvelous for whom are a little or bit more confuse in misunderstanding about formal or informal speaking. At the beginning toward end you will find a good translate either context or meaning of the fallacies in the book. But if you are reading Persian version of this note that there are lack of content in the book. If you see the table of content of the book in En version there will be 300 logical fallacy, but in Fa version there will be only 228 fallacy.

In the end don't need to worry about the book. Read it as I did.
Profile Image for Bilal.
48 reviews
September 18, 2023
Debunking my every day’s life logical fallacy would be favorable but I didn’t see any of them relevant with ‘Ukrainian Roulette’ (my monthly writing's title). Realizing how logical fallacy tend to messing up the mindset of problem-solving, building a problem around detective subject full of logical fallacy would produce a systematic to discover and examine the facts (or in this case, clues). It surely challenge me to come up with abundance of fresh problems.

This https://bilal-labil.medium.com/ukrain... article will be forever in debt to Bo Bennett's work.
6 reviews
May 9, 2017
Great collection of logical (and of course rhetoric) fallacies. This could be a great resource that you want to check back from time to time if it was in any way ordered in a more reasonable way than *alphabetical* (that's right, not by relation, not by similarity, not by classification). At least I have got the kindle version, so I can use the search function...
Profile Image for Shivam.
32 reviews3 followers
December 17, 2022
Could have been a great reference book on logical fallacies. But it is messed up due to its poor indexing - The fallacies are indexed alphabetically. Honestly, and ironically, I find it illogical.

Liked the sense of humour from the author that made it possible to go through the list which would otherwise have been a boring dictionary of fallacies.

11 reviews
March 2, 2023
Very informative and helpful at understanding the basics of logical fallacies. Know that a large majority of examples are about how Christians often make fallacious statements (and then he jokes about how they are so no smart for making that argument! So silly of them!). Descriptive, I took notes, helped me know what to google to get more info on topics!
Profile Image for Jason.
13 reviews1 follower
July 5, 2017
Enjoyed the book! It contains a huge collection of fallacies with easy to understand examples. The humor used throughout the book keeps readers engaged so that you don't feel like you're reading a dictionary.
Profile Image for Luís Soares.
35 reviews18 followers
January 14, 2019
Thorough list with good examples. Not as boring as I was afraid of.
Could have included some images like Venn diagrams to help explaining some fallacies.
Could have categorized and/or joined similar fallacies.
Profile Image for Cherlita.
10 reviews
October 17, 2020
A concise and clear book that dissects every kind of logical fallacy. The author does a great job explaining each term, putting the logical formula, and giving entertaining, hilarious examples. I recommend this book as a book that would sharpen your wit and logical thinking.
10 reviews
December 18, 2022
I appreciate the effort of collecting so many LEGO pieces of correct and fallacious reasoning, but I would have enjoyed it even more if they were organized by types/categories. I don't know to what extent the informal language makes it less reliable as a source of truth
Profile Image for Joanne McKinnon.
Author 9 books3 followers
November 26, 2017
Good introduction to logical thinking.
Even readers who consider themselves logical thinkers can benefit from this book. Plus, the author knows how to use humour to explain in plain words.
Profile Image for Suzi.
31 reviews4 followers
July 26, 2018
Essential reading in these logically perilous times. Don’t go on social media without it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews

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