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Is this an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy?

Brian tells Ryan he should have a protective case on his iPhone because it will break if he does not have one. Ryan tells Brian he is wrong because Brian does not have a case on his iPhone either.
a) Yes
b) No
c) It depends
d) Not sure

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The conversation between Brian and Ryan is an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy, as Ryan's reply attempts to discredit Brian's argument by pointing out inconsistencies in his behavior, instead of addressing the argument itself.

Step-by-step explanation:

Tu Quoque Fallacy Explained

The dialogue between Brian and Ryan is a classic example of the Tu Quoque fallacy. Ryan's retort that Brian does not have a case on his own iPhone is an attempt to undermine Brian's argument by highlighting a perceived inconsistency in Brian's behavior, rather than addressing the argument itself. Therefore, the correct answer to whether this is an example of the Tu Quoque fallacy is (a) Yes. Ryan's response does not engage with the actual argument about whether or not an iPhone requires a protective case to prevent breakage; instead, it pivots to point out Brian's own actions, which are irrelevant to the validity of his argument.

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