In persuasive writing, the writer's challenge is to build strong arguments that are supported by credible evidence. To accomplish this task, writers must define terms, provide clear reasoning, support reasons with facts, examples, reasons, etc. by citing authorities. It is unfortunate, however, that some writers use techniques that may appear to be logical, but in reality, they are fallacious. Some of the fallacies commonly used are post hoc, ergo propter hoc; only-cause; hasty generalization; unreliable authority; attacking the person and not the issue, argument by analogy; and false analogy. After reviewing these fallacies, decide which one you may have used before or one that you have observed others use. Were there any consequences for using these fallacies?
Bret Harte, Mark Twain, Red Cloud and Sarah Hopkins are realistic writers. How do each of these writers see the "West" differently and similarly. How do they see its potential in terms of the "American Dream"?