ESGS Logical Fallacies
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Appeal to Wealth/Poverty

 Definition 

Also called Ad Crumenam (Wealth), Ad Lazarum (Poverty).

The fallacy of believing that money or lack thereof is a criterion of correctness, virtue; that the rich or poor are more likely to be right, virtuous.

 Explanation 

This is a fallacy when money has no relevance to the claim.

 Examples 

"Microsoft software is undoubtedly superior; why else would Bill Gates have got so rich?"

"Monks are more likely to possess insight into the meaning of life, as they have given up the distractions of wealth."

 Counter-examples 

"Bill Gates could buy a Ferrari: he is so rich."

"I can understand poor people: I've been poor too."

 Advices 


© ESGS, 2002.