Question

Which informal fallacy occurs when the 'cited authority' falls short of credibility?

• A. The Argument against the Person
• B. Begging the Question
• C. An Appeal to Inappropriate Authority
• D. Fallacy of Converse Accident

Hint:

An appeal to inappropriate authority undermines the argument by citing an unreliable or irrelevant source as proof of a claim.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Fallacy of Inappropriate Authority.
This fallacy occurs when an argument relies on an authority figure who is not a credible or relevant source for the subject matter at hand. It is also known as "appeal to false authority." If the cited authority is not an expert in the specific field, the argument is invalid.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options.
- 1. The Argument against the Person: This is an ad hominem fallacy, where the argument is directed against the person making the claim, not the claim itself. - 2. Begging the Question: This fallacy occurs when an argument's premise assumes the truth of the conclusion. - 3. An Appeal to Inappropriate Authority: This is correct. This fallacy occurs when an argument is based on an authority figure who is not qualified to speak on the topic. - 4. Fallacy of Converse Accident: This involves making a generalization based on an exceptional case, not related to the authority issue.
Step 3: Conclusion. The correct answer is 3. An Appeal to Inappropriate Authority.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The correct answer is 3. An Appeal to Inappropriate Authority.}} \]