A Dictionary of Common Fallacies

An eclectic, idiosyncratic collection, alphabetically arranged by key word in two volumes, with an index in each. A large number of entries have a British orientation (and are not so "common" for Americans); many of the "fallacies" are dubious (e.g. osteopathy). Topics are inadequately addressed (though "authorities" are cited); many are trivial. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.

This collection of common fallacies, first published in England, includes false beliefs concerning historical facts, physical and social science, and particular author's erroneous theories. A few categories such as hallucinations, some hoaxes, the occult, religious systems, and miracles, are said to be excluded in the preface, though some are present. The entries vary both in length and quality. The Bermuda Triangle and Erich von Daniken receive substantial treatment, but other entries like "The efficacy of sacred relics," and an arbitrary paragraph on a university education have much less merit. Other entries offer amusing browsing, although the style is at times abrupt. Each volume contains a separate alphabetical sequence, and unfortunately, also a separate index. There is room for improvement in future editions.
- Stephen H. Cape, Indiana Univ. Lib., Bloomington
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.