FALLACY OF ACCIDENT (dicto simpliciter)
Definition:
• This fallacy consist in applying a general rule
to a particular case when circumstances
suggest that an exception to the rule should
apply.
• It occurs when assumes that a rule of thumb
applies to everyone or every situation,
including obvious exceptions.
• The application of the general rule is
inappropriate because of the situation’s
“accidents,” or exceptional facts.
GENERAL RULE
MISAPPLIED
SPECIFIC CASE
Examples:
1. All birds can fly. Penguins are birds. Therefore,
penguins can fly.
2. Freedom of speech is a constitutionally
guaranteed right. Therefore, Leo Beltran should not
be arrested for his speech that incited the riot last
week.
3. Diligence of a good father of a family should be
exercised by every person in the exercise of his
rights and in the performance of his duties.
Therefore, Rural Transit should at least exercise the
diligence of a good father of a family in the conduct
of its operations.
HASTY GENERALIZATION
Definition:
 A type of fallacy where an arguer draws a
general or universal conclusion from
insufficient evidence or data.
 Even if the given premises may be true, they
are inadequate to correctly justify the
conclusion.
 Also known as converse accident, as the
specific scenarios are not applicable to the
generalization presented.
Examples:
1. Clark experienced an abusive relationship
with her ex-girlfriend before which led him
to conclude that all girls are abusive.
2. I've met three Americans and they all hated
Balut, so all Americans hate Balut.
3. My Iphone 4 broke when I accidentally
dropped it on our pool, So I told my friends
that Iphone 4s cannot be submerged in
water.
Difference from Inductive Reasoning
In inductive reasoning, one can make a
logical generalization as long as the sample cases or
supporting facts are representative of the whole.
Examples:
1. I asked my 5 friends if they are in favor of the
plastic ban in Cagayan de Oro. A voted yes. B
also voted yes. So did C. It would seem that
they must be in favor of the ban.
2. The clerks of court in Branches 17, 25, and 38
of the Regional Trial Court are lawyers.
Therefore, clerks of court must be lawyers.