Proof by example


     
    Name of fallacy Proof by example
    Aliases Inappropriate generalisation
    Type Inductive Argument, Informal Argument
    Description Where things are proven by giving an example.
    Example The fallacy of generalizing from examples is show by the following example:
    I've seen a person shoot someone dead.
    Therefore, all people are murderers.
    FormI know that x, which is a member of group X, has the property P.
    Therefore, all other elements of X have the property P.
    Treatment Dealt with by ask what does the generalization predicts and look for evidence that disproves the prediction.

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