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top   »  thinking   »  fallacies   »  proving too much

What is Proving Too Much?

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Proving too much is an argument that appears valid until it is shown that it suggests absurd possibilities. It is associated with overly broad arguments. For example:
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Gas burning cars are wrong because they pollute the environment.
Implies that humans are wrong because they also release pollutants such as carbon dioxide.
---
Natural foods are healthy because they are as nature intended
Implies that eating dirt is healthy because it's as nature intended
---
Advertising in cartoons is wrong because it attempts to influence children
Implies that parenting is wrong because parents influence their children
---
As with any fallacy, proving too much, doesn't imply that your conclusions are wrong. Just that your argument isn't completely logical.
Overview: Proving Too Much
Type
Fallacy
Definition
A proof that is too wide so as to suggest absurd things.
Related Concepts
Proof By Example
False Dichotomy
If-By-Whiskey
Fallacy Fallacy

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