Question

Is this an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy?

Donna tells Eric he should go to college and get a job rather than take a year off; he defends himself by telling Donna she is incorrect to say that because she took a year off from college as well.
a) Yes
b) No
c) Maybe
d) Not sure

Answer 1

Yes, this situation is an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The situation described is an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy. In this scenario, Donna advises Eric to go to college and get a job instead of taking a year off. Eric responds by pointing out that Donna also took a year off from college. By doing so, Eric is attempting to undermine Donna's argument by focusing on her perceived hypocrisy rather than addressing the merit of her advice.

This is a common form of the Tu Quoque fallacy, where someone deflects criticism or argument by pointing to their opponent's alleged inconsistency or hypocrisy. However, it is important to note that a person's past actions or decisions do not invalidate their argument or advice unless those actions directly impact the specific argument being made.