LSAT Practice Test

What is the appeal to hypocrisy also known as?

1. Runaway train

2. Loaded words

3. Tu quoque

4. Slippery slope fallacy

The correct answer is: Tu quoque

The appeal to hypocrisy, also known as "tu quoque," is a logical fallacy where someone's argument is dismissed or questioned based on the person's inconsistency or hypocrisy. This fallacy suggests that because the person making the argument doesn't practice what they preach, their argument can be disregarded. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the appeal to hypocrisy: "Runaway train" refers to assuming a chain of events will continue to its most extreme outcome, "Loaded words" refers to using emotionally charged language to sway opinion rather than addressing the argument, and "Slippery slope fallacy" involves assuming a minor action will lead to extreme and drastic consequences.