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Is this a fallacy of definition?

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Original Question

Transphobes consider 'cis' a slur because "There is only make and femake?" Is this appeal to what is supposedly "self-evident"?

Answers

2

Since “transpobe,” can mean either a person who fears or has a negative perception of people, you need to define trans to which you refer and phobia in this context. For example, transphobia can include fear, aversion, hatred, violence or anger towards people who do not conform to social gender roles. 


But some people don’t care about a eunuch in drag and don’t feel any emotion towards them or give a hoot as to what they think or consider a slur. Psychological analysis of people who call themselves transgender, as distinct from emotion, however, is different.

The argument in question seems to involve multiple aspects, including potential fallacies of definition and possibly an appeal to what is considered "self-evident." Let's break down the components:

1. **Fallacy of Definition**: The argument appears to involve confusion or disagreement over the definition of terms, particularly "cis." A fallacy of definition occurs when a term is used in a way that is imprecise, ambiguous, or misleading, creating confusion or misunderstanding. In this context, if the term "cis" is being defined incorrectly or its meaning is misunderstood or misrepresented intentionally, it could contribute to a fallacy of definition.

2. **Appeal to Self-Evidence**: The statement "There is only make and femake" (presumably intended as "male and female") suggests an appeal to what is supposedly "self-evident." This type of reasoning relies on the assumption that something is obviously true or needs no further explanation or evidence. It's important to recognize that what is considered "self-evident" can be subjective and culturally influenced, and this claim disregards the complexity and spectrum of gender identity.

3. **Straw Man Fallacy**: Another possible fallacy at play is a straw man. This occurs when someone's argument is misrepresented to make it easier to attack or refute. By oversimplifying the concept of gender or the usage of the term "cis," the argument might be misrepresented to dismiss or reject it without engaging with the actual complexities or nuances involved.

4. **False Dichotomy**: The statement "There is only make and femake" introduces a false dichotomy by presenting gender as a strictly binary concept, ignoring the existence of non-binary, genderqueer, and other gender identities. A false dichotomy limits options to two choices when, in reality, more possibilities exist.

In summary, the argument includes elements that can be considered as fallacies of definition, an appeal to self-evidence, a possible straw man, and a false dichotomy. Addressing these logical issues would require clearer definitions, recognition of the spectrum of gender identities, and a more nuanced understanding of the terms involved.
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