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Argument from Authority

Argument from Authority. In this fallacy it is argued that a statement is correct because the statement is made by a person or source that is commonly regarded as authoritative. The most general structure of this argument is : Source A says that p is true. Source A is authoritative.

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Argument from Authority

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  1. Argument from Authority In this fallacy it is argued that a statement is correct because the statement is made by a person or source that is commonly regarded as authoritative. The most general structure of this argument is: Source A says that p is true. Source A is authoritative. Therefore, p is true. Eric Skipworth 1st period

  2. Example: It is absurd to believe that professional baseball players have used steroids because the most famous slugger of our time has repeatedly stated that such a claim is false. Example from: Cracking the AP English Language and Composition Exam Book

  3. The audience is stating that because a star athlete says nobody does steroids that not a single person could be involved in their use. This claim is highly unrealistic, even though one person says they aren’t involved in steroids doesn’t mean there are no others in the world involved. We often place our trust in people who we shouldn’t. We buy products because of who advertises them, and jump on the bandwagon if the right person is the leader, so we are all under the influence of this authority factor at one time or another.

  4. The Crucible Example 1 Act Three Page 221: Danforth vs. Abigail Danforth: You deny every scrap and title of this? Abigail: If I must answer that, I will leave and I will not come back again! Abigail: (Stepping up to Danforth) What look do you give me? I’ll not have such looks!

  5. Explanation Abigail feels that she doesn’t have to do anything she doesn’t want to do. From the start we can tell she feels like she is the boss. However, since she did not answer this the court room will appear as if she is lieing.

  6. Example 2 Act 3 page 214: Giles and Danforth Danforth: You will surely tell us the name. Giles: I will not give you no name. I mentioned my wife’s name once and I’ll burn in hell long enough for that. I stand mute. Danforth: In that case, I have no choice but to arrest you for contempt of this court, do you know that?

  7. Explanation Regardless of whether or not Giles could give a name there is no other evidence against him. But because of Danforth’s “authority” he believes he is guilty anyway. Many follow in his path because of his decision.

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