Unreasonable: How Everyday Arguments are Easily Distorted

Arguments depend on good reasoning and justification. Here we will look at some of the ways that can make invalid reasoning appear sound. In the first session, we will look at selected logical fallacies and the real-world consequences they have had, including the sustainability claims, discrimination at Denny’s and issues around Silicone breast implants. The second session will again draw on recent examples and deal with psychological influences such as reciprocation, consistency and inattention that can all derail our thinking, especially in politics and advertising.