# Detect Fallacies

> Spot logical errors in reasoning

- Skill: `synapseradio/detect-fallacies` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add synapseradio/detect-fallacies`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/synapseradio/detect-fallacies/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: synapseradio (https://skillmd.com/u/synapseradio)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/synapseradio/detect-fallacies

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Follow these steps:

### 1. Identify the argument

Target: `$ARGUMENTS`, else the argument in the current context.

### 2. Examine the argument structure

Identify the claim, the supporting reasoning, and how the reasoning connects to the conclusion.

### 3. Check for common fallacy patterns

- **False dichotomy**: either/or when other options exist
- **Slippery slope**: claiming A inevitably leads to Z
- **Ad hominem**: attacking the person instead of the argument
- **Straw man**: misrepresenting a position to defeat it easily
- **Appeal to authority**: expert opinion substituting for evidence
- **Correlation as causation**: assuming correlation proves causation
- **Hasty generalization**: broad conclusions from limited examples
- **Circular reasoning**: using the conclusion as a premise
- **Appeal to emotion**: using fear or sympathy instead of logic
- **Survivorship bias**: observing only successes, ignoring failures

### 4. Identify the specific flaw

Pinpoint where the logic breaks down, what is assumed incorrectly, and what relevant information is ignored or obscured.

### 5. Check whether the reasoning is actually valid

Before flagging, steelman it: does context, domain knowledge, or a non-obvious valid inference justify what looks fallacious?

### 6. Explain the problem and suggest corrections

Show why the reasoning fails, give counter-examples if helpful, and indicate how it could be strengthened.