Ep. #50 – Logical Fallacies & Speaking Truth in Love w/ Dr. Cross
Summary
Dr. Bryan Cross joins us to discuss logical fallacies and how to speak the truth in love. In this interview, we cover multiple fallacies including “bulverism,” the “tu quoque,” and “whataboutism.” Additionally, I press Dr. Cross with two objections that purport to show the Catholic worldview requires a defective form of reasoning.
Guest Bio
Dr. Bryan R. Cross was raised in the Pentecostal tradition, then became Reformed shortly after completing his bachelor’s degree in cellular and molecular biology at the University of Michigan. He then received an M.Div. from Covenant Theological Seminary. In 2003 he and his wife and two daughters became Anglican. On October 8, 2006, he and his family were received into full communion with the Catholic Church. He has previously taught at Saint Louis University, Lindenwood University, and Kenrick-Glennon Seminary. Presently he’s an associate professor of philosophy at Mount Mercy University.
Show Outline
In the first segment, Dr. Cross explains how he got involved with online dialogue. He discusses his purpose in participating in various online discussions. Also, he outlines the importance of the principle of charity and the principle of edification.
In the next segment, we examine a handout that Dr. Cross developed for his students called “Logic Pointers.” We discuss several elements of the handout, and I ask Dr. Cross to explain the fallacy of bulverism. Additionally, he explains the “tu quoque” fallacy and the fallacy of “whataboutism.”
In the final segment, I press Dr. Cross with two objections that attempt to show Catholics engage in motivated reasoning or irrational habits of faith. Lastly, I ask for a 30-60 second parting piece of guidance on how we can become better formed in intellectual virtue.
Resources Mentioned
Speaking Truth in the Beauty of Love by Dr. Bryan R. Cross
Dr. Bryan Cross’ personal blog
Related Episodes
Ep. #49 – First Principles of Knowledge w/ Karlo Broussard
CORE #02 – 7 Thoughts for Discussing Arguments & Evidence
