Fallacy

Also known as “error”. Category corresponding to truth in epistemology. It refers to those contents in man’s knowledge that go against the objective reality and its laws, a distorted reflection of the object by the subject of knowledge. It is inevitable for people to commit errors of one kind or another while they explore the truth. The subjectivity, one-sidedness and superficiality of men’s knowledge can lead to the emergence of errors. Individuals’ capacities for knowledge and practice are limited. Man’s knowledge is necessarily limited by the level of practice, the level of science and the technical conditions of the epoch in which one lives, as well as by one’s class position in class society. Knowledge is also limited by the development of the objective course and its degree of manifestation. When aspects and essence of objective processes have not been fully exposed, it is inevitable that an erroneous knowledge will occur. Truth exists in comparison with fallacy, struggles with it, and develops by gaining victory in the struggle. Truth and fallacy are opposites. In order to uphold truth and correct errors, a line between truth and fallacy has to be drawn. Truth and fallacy permeate each other and can transform into each other under certain conditions. Any truth has its conditions and scope of application. If a truth is used regardless of changes in time, place, and conditions, it will turn into a fallacy. Scientifically summing up experiences and correcting errors is capable of attaining truthful knowledge. We must upholds and develop truth, and be brave and adept at fighting against errors.