Political Fallacies: Yes, Virginia, We're All Hypocrites

I have bad news for you.  You're a hypocrite.  Yes, the epithet Jesus consistently applied to his enemies also applies to you.  Think I'm wrong?  Consider this:

• If you're "Pro-Life" on abortion, odds are you support the Death Penalty
• If you're "Pro-Choice" on abortion, odds are you oppose choice when it comes to Gun Ownership

"But," You shout, "You're oversimplifying these issues!  These are complex problems that can't be completely covered by a label!"

Exactly.

If you've spent any time at all in the politics of late, you see one kind of story shared and re-shared relentlessly, whether it be on social media, blogs, or traditional media.  The basic template is this:

1. Such-and-So said this about a political issue
2. The same person also said the opposite about a different political issue
3. This proves they are a hypocrite
4. Therefore, you should ignore everything Such-and-So says

This technique combines three different kinds of logical fallacy:

1. Genetic Fallacy:  Discrediting an argument by going after a person instead of addressing the ideas they raise.
2. Straw Man Fallacy:  Discrediting an argument by presenting an oversimplified and incorrect version of it.  
3. Whataboutism:  Discrediting an argument by raising another issue that is irrelevant but alarming, instead of addressing the ideas they raise. 

Make no mistake.  The originators of these posts know exactly what they are doing.  They are trying to get you to stop listening to their opponent and walk away.  It's the laziest way to win an argument.

What is the problem with this?  

1. A confidence artist convinced you to turn off your brain.
2. It's impossible to convince an opponent you never engage with.
3. It's impossible to learn anything unless you engage those you disagree with.

My challenge to you:  STOP WORRYING ABOUT WHETHER YOUR OPPONENT IS A HYPOCRITE AND ENGAGE THEIR IDEAS.  YOU DON'T HAVE TO AGREE; YOU JUST HAVE TO LISTEN HONESTLY.  You may be surprised to learn your opponent has a point... or you may find an opportunity to show them your side of the issue.