Sweeping generalization: Informal logical fallacy

Writing blog topic

Understand why readers may be misled, confused, or deceived when you apply a general rule to all situations.

Logical fallacies are flawed, deceptive, or false arguments that can be proven wrong with reasoning. The vast majority of fallacies are informal, and they are fallacious because of the content of their reasoning and their form.

If you attempt to apply a general rule to all situations, you are making a sweeping generalization when there are exceptions to the rule. You may also present claims as facts rather than propositions, which is not entirely true because these claims do not apply to every individual or situation.

Consider using specific information to help you sound more confident or provide evidence, such as specific statements or research findings from scholarly sources, to support your claims. Moreover, acknowledge exceptions or limitations to reduce the likelihood that an argument can be criticized or a finding disputed. Otherwise, employ less overgeneralized language such as the adverbs "sometimes," "usually," or "always“ when you make your claims. See examples of sweeping generalizations and logical arguments below.

FALLACY   Every year, oil companies pump up more oil. They make huge profits at the cost of the environment — no consumer benefits from fossil fuels.

LOGIC  Between February and July 2020, the rig count plunged by over 70% as demand for oil plummeted. However, oil profit by year has nearly tripled in just seven years and quadrupled since 2002, going from an average of $2bn to $6bn a year, while Americans are facing high prices at the pump.

FALLACY  There are many problems within the force because all police officers are corrupt.

LOGIC  There are many problems within the force, but not all police officers are corrupt. Research conducted in South Africa shows that corruption within the force is not systematic; rather, it vacillates around the country.

FALLACY   Over three-quarters of Democratic voters said that they would vote to elect a socialist president, according to 2020 poll results from Gallup. Therefore, all Democrats are out-of-the-mainstream, economy-wrecking socialists.

LOGIC  Not all Democrats are socialists. Over three-quarters of Democratic voters said that they would vote to elect a socialist president, according to 2020 poll results from Gallup.