A distinction without a difference is an informal fallacy where an author or speaker attempts to describe a distinction between two things where no discernible difference exists.1 It is particularly used when a word or phrase has connotations associated with it that one party to an argument prefers to avoid.
For example, a person might say "I did not lie; I merely stretched the truth a little bit."2
Form of the fallacy
- Claim X is made where the truth of the claim requires a distinct difference between A and B.
- There is no distinct difference between A and B.
- Therefore, claim X is incorrectly claimed to be true.
Example
In the following conversation:
- Sergio: There is no way I would ever even consider taking dancing lessons.
- Kitty: How about I ask my friend from work to teach you?
- Sergio: If you know someone who is willing to teach me how to dance, then I am willing to learn, sure.3
Sergio's fallacy is thinking that being taught by someone is different than taking a lesson.
See also
See also
References
References
- Martinich, A. P. (1996). Philosophical Writing: An Introduction. Blackwell Publishing. p. 99. ISBN 9781405143929.
- Royal, Brandon (2013). The Little Blue Reasoning Book: 50 Powerful Principles for Clear and Effective Thinking. Maven Publishing. p. 178. ISBN 978-1897393604.
- Bennett, Bo. "Distinction Without a Difference". logicallyfallacious.com.