If-By-Whiskey
A logical fallacy where a response to a question is contingent on the questioner’s opinions and uses words with strong connotations to appear to support both sides of an issue, common in politics.
THE IDEA
Description
An if-by-whiskey response uses favorable and unfavorable descriptions of the same subject to appear to agree with opposing audiences while avoiding a definite position. The problem is the evasive use of those descriptions, not merely acknowledging that an issue has competing considerations.
Example #1
The name refers to a 1952 speech by Noah S. “Soggy” Sweat, Jr., a Mississippi lawmaker discussing alcohol prohibition, which the state retained until 1966. The speech itself is not included here.
Explanation
Emotionally charged descriptions can let a speaker praise one version of an issue and condemn another without saying what policy they support. Check whether the speaker has supplied a position and reasons for it.
Example #2
The source mentions an “If-by-God” adaptation contrasting favorable and unfavorable descriptions of a deity, but does not include the argument.
Exception
A moderator may present opposing views without endorsing either, perhaps adding some “spice” to a debate. That role is different from answering a direct question evasively.
When to use it
When debating a controversial issue, be aware of rhetorical techniques that appear to support both sides.
In evaluating political candidates, listen for statements that use strong connotations to avoid taking a stand.
When writing persuasive essays, ensure you take a clear stance rather than relying on equivocation.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Whiskey Prohibition Speech
A 1952 speech by Noah S. Sweat on whether Mississippi should legalize alcohol, using the fallacy to appear to support both sides by employing emotionally charged language.
If-by-God Argument
The source mentions an adaptation about God using opposing descriptions, but the argument is absent. The reference alone does not let the reader examine its rhetoric.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Can you identify a political speech that uses the if-by-whiskey fallacy?
How does the use of emotionally charged language affect your perception of an argument?
In what ways can you avoid falling for this fallacy when evaluating arguments?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Logically Fallacious - The Ultimate Collection of Over 300 Logical Fallacies