Fallacy of Narrowing the Definition: The Case of the "Real" Artist
Premise 1: A "real" artist is someone who creates art for the sake of art, not for profit or fame.
Premise 2: A commercial artist creates art for profit.
Conclusion: Therefore, a commercial artist is not a "real" artist.
The Fallacy: This argument narrows the definition of "artist" to exclude commercial artists. While some artists might create purely for artistic expression, many talented individuals use their skills to create art for commercial purposes. This doesn't diminish their artistry; it simply means they are working within a different context.
Why this is a fallacy:
* Definition too restrictive: The argument defines "artist" in a way that excludes a significant category of artistic practice.
* Ignoring nuances: It fails to acknowledge the complexities of artistic motivation and practice. Many commercial artists might also be deeply motivated by artistic expression, even if they also seek financial compensation.
* Creating a false dichotomy: The argument presents a false choice between "real" artists and commercial artists, suggesting that the two are mutually exclusive.
Other examples of narrowing the definition:
* "A true patriot never criticizes their country." This narrows the definition of patriotism to exclude those who engage in constructive criticism.
* "A real scientist always follows the scientific method." This ignores the diverse approaches and creative thinking often necessary for scientific progress.
Key takeaway: Be wary of arguments that define terms too narrowly or create artificial distinctions. Look for evidence that supports a broader and more nuanced understanding of the concepts at play.