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A statistical generalization is a statement which is usually true, but not always true. Very often these are expressed using the word "most", as in "Most students can't kick effectively." Sometimes the word "generally" is used, as in "Generally, students can't kick effectively." Or, sometimes, no specific word is used, as in: "Students can't kick effectively." Fallacies involving statistical generalizations occur because the generalization is not always true. Thus, when an author treats a statistical generalization as though it were always true, the author commits a fallacy.

Accident

A general rule is applied when circumstances suggest that an exception to the rule should apply. For example:

"You should be CPR certified before using CPR on a student. Therefore, even though the student was not breathing, you should not have used CPR."

Converse Accident

An exception to a generalization is applied to cases where the generalization should apply. For example:

"Because you awarded a black belt to the student with one leg without him having to do the required kicks, you should should waive the kicking requirements for all the students."

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Subtopics:  NEXT | Preface  Distraction  Appeals To Motives  Changing Subject  Inductive   Statistical Syllogisms  Causal  Missing Point  Ambiguity  Category Errors  Non-Sequitur  Other Types

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