Question

Read the passage from a debate speech.

The current trade situation in this nation is unacceptable. We continue to lose money to other nations, while those nations prosper. I have a detailed plan to get our country—and its people—back on the right track. My opponent, who uses her time to spread lies and rumors while eating nice dinners bought by you taxpayers, does not even have a plan. I question her priorities.

Which statement best explains why the evidence provided in the text is a fallacy?

Answer 1

Answer: The speaker uses an ad hominem argument by attacking an opponent's honesty

Answer 2

The speaker uses an ad hominem argument by attacking an opponent’s honesty.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to a different source, these are the options that come with this question:

• The speaker uses anecdotal evidence with phrases like “eating nice dinners.”
• The speaker uses a bandwagon statement by complaining that other nations prosper.
• The speaker uses an ad hominem argument by attacking an opponent’s honesty.
• The speaker uses a false dilemma by claiming to have a plan while an opponent does not.

In this example, the speaker uses an ad hominem fallacy. This is a fallacious argument in which the person avoids discussing the subject at hand and instead attacks the characteristics, principles, tastes or values of the person making the argument. In this example, the speaker does not talk about the opposition's policies. Instead, he only focuses on the fact that she likes "nice dinners."