Hello Class,
An argument I experienced last week falls under the category of the perfectionist fallacy. I went to the store with my roommate. I consistently bring my reusable bags to avoid wasting more plastic than I already do. One only needs so many extra plastic bags for bathroom garbage cans. My roommate told me it was a waste of time to bring in my bags and that I was not helping the environment either way. He reasoned that I contribute to plenty of garbage, from packaged meats to boxed or canned foods, and that even if I bring my bags to the grocery store, I still am not making a difference in the impact of the environment.
Argument 1
P1: You contribute to environmental waste through various means, such as boxed or canned foods and packaged meats.
P2: Even with reusable bags at the grocery store, the overall environmental impact is not significantly reduced.
C1: Therefore, bringing reusable bags to the store is a waste of time and does not contribute meaningfully to addressing the environmental waste problem.
My roommate used the perfectionist fallacy because he rejected the effectiveness of reusable bags based solely on the idea that they do not entirely solve the planet’s overall waste problem. While reusable bags may not be a flawless solution to the widespread problem, they can still contribute positively and reduce the use of disposable plastic bags, even if other aspects of environmental impact exist.
The fallacy I use the most is the common practice tactic. I use this technique when I lack the motivation to proceed with my original plan to go to the gym after work. In addition, I also use this technique to justify the actions of overindulging in alcohol when downtown on a weekend night.
Now that I have identified the fallacy, I am guilty of using consistently, I can change this by:
- Reflecting on my goals to remind myself why I am going to the gym.
- Develop a deeper level of motivation through repetition to make it to the gym after work daily.
As far as overdoing my alcohol consumption, the steps to change include:
- Be aware of the fallacy that I usually use.
- Seek support or change my environment.
- Practice moderation.
Sincerely,
-Rylie Cummings