Question 1

1). What have you learned in this class over the course of the semester? Be specific.

First, I’d say I learned a lot about how to approach an online class. This was my first experience having to try and learn without having a scheduled time and place for a learning environment.

In addition, as far as subject matter, I find myself constantly analyzing arguments now. Even if the argument has nothing to do with me or my circumstances I still am intrigued and listen in on the different stances attempting to apply the different concepts we have learned over the course of the semester. I found that on almost every occasion where a discussion elevates into a heated argument, there is a least one fallacy in play. Most recently, while I was on my way to the Library, I overheard a couple arguing at each other about whether or not the boyfriend thought that one of the girlfriend’s friends was hot. After a few comments on either side I overheard the girlfriend loudly projecting her voice and stating: “Just tell me, I want to see if you pick up the things (appealing features) that she’s trying to show off.” The comment stuck with me as one that has probably been used by many women who think that they know what every man is thinking about them. I thought to myself about the argument, and where the premise and conclusion were. I realized that it was a clear appeal to vanity, or apple polishing.

I have been identifying concepts with arguments much more than just this example and am thankful that I had the opportunity to see things from a different perspective.