How not to be fooled by 7 common, but flawed, tools of persuasion

The ability to exchange differences of opinion in a reasoned and respectful manner is vital – both to personal relationships and to the health of society. Yet these sorts of healthy dialogues sometimes seem in short supply.

There are often types of arguments put forward that sound convincing, and are certainly passionate, but actually lack credibility or internal consistency.

Being deliberate in what we think and believe means having the intellectual discipline to spot logical fallacies, and also refuse to use them ourselves.

Here are 7 flawed types of arguments to watch out for, in your own thinking or that of others.