Simpsons Logical Fallacies: Equivocation

Open captions change to closed captions during second half of video. Use of copyrighted content is protected by fair use which says that copyrighted content can be used so long as commentary is given. Definitions of logical fallacies come from Practical Argument by Laurie G. Kirszner and Stephen R. Mandell.

[WildwoodClaire]

Certain English words are equivocal and can cause misunderstanding, a perfect example being the word "understanding." Whereas it may merely imply perception, it may be misperceived as an expression of empathy.

[snazzyquizzes]

I'd never heard of this fallacy. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[Inkyminkyzizwoz]

Reminds me of when someone responded to a comment about how plant based 'meat' shouldn't be called meat because it doesn't actually contain meat by saying that there's no egg in Easter eggs, to which I pointed out that they're called that because they're shaped like eggs, then that person said that if that's the case then the other stuff can be called 'meat' because it's shaped like meat, to which I said that it can't because it doesn't contain meat - this went back and forth several times, with that person refusing to accept that just because something is a requirement in one case, doesn't mean it is in others!

[adamwelch]

Honestly i understand the point you make with your videos i already know the terminology your trying to teach i just come for the cartoon clips! 😂😂😂

[soaphia]

where can i find this episode on youtube?

[hxhdfjifzirstc]

This is not the best explanation of the fallacy of equivocation -- this clip is showing examples of spin, euphemisms, etc.

The two different meanings of the word truth are not an equivocation, as he is intentionally trying to say between the lines, what he doesn't want to say aloud. An equivocation is either done accidentally, or intentionally, in which case it's meant to intellectually fool someone, instead of be some kind of inside joke euphemism.

Yikes! Simpsons really relies on logic fallacies