LSAT Practice Test

What is the fallacy when someone misrepresents an argument to make it easier to attack?

1. bandwagon

2. appeal to authority

3. loaded question

4. strawman

The correct answer is: strawman

The correct answer is D. In this situation, misrepresenting an argument to make it easier to attack is known as a strawman fallacy. This fallacy occurs when someone distorts or exaggerates an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack or refute. By attacking the misrepresented version of the argument instead of the actual argument presented, the person using the strawman fallacy attempts to make their position appear stronger than it actually is. The other options are not relevant to the scenario described in the question: - Bandwagon fallacy (A) occurs when someone claims that because an idea or belief is popular or widely accepted, it must be true or good. - Appeal to authority (B) involves referencing an authority figure or expert to support an argument, which is not the same as misrepresenting an argument. - Loaded question (C) is a type of fallacy that involves asking a question that has a presumption built into it, potentially leading to a misleading or unjustified conclusion.