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Exception fallacy
Disciplines > Argument > Fallacies > Exception fallacy Description | Discussion | Example | See also
DescriptionThe exception fallacy occurs when data about an individual is used to draw conclusions about a group of people. ExampleA first class passenger on a train is arrogant and rude to a person who walks into the first class compartment. The person concludes that all first class passengers are arrogant. A person in France is helped by a policeman there. They assume all French police are helpful. A teacher finds that a few students from a particular part of town are difficult. They conclude that that part of town is rough. DiscussionWe are always in a hurry to classify people and groups and, when we have limited data about a group, we will often use what information we have, even if it is not statistically valid -- and even if it is a single data point. This data may well be the exception rather than the rule - hence the name of the fallacy. This effect is particularly common when several factors are taken into account:
This fallacy is an effective reversal of the Ecological fallacy. ClassificationSee also |
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Site Menu |
| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
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