The Popular Artist Fallacy
fal·la·cy/ˈfaləsē/Noun
- A mistaken belief, esp. one based on unsound argument.
- A failure in reasoning that renders an argument invalid.
*I’m going to concentrate on music for this particular post, but this actually applies to all areas of entertainment.
In music, no matter the genre, when there is a debate about an artist, song or album, you will usually hear a misinformed arguer try to end the discussion with the following statement, “Just go back and listen to your ____.” The blank is usually filled in with whoever is considered to be a popular, watered down artist being played on the radio at the time. In Hip-Hop it has progressed from Puff Daddy to Soulja Boy to now Waka Flocka. In R&B it’s Beyonce. In Rock, it’s Nickleback.
Instead of trying to argue the merits for that person’s fondness of said artist/song/album, or even having a sound argument period, they would rather try to slam you with one general swipe.
Almost everyone has been on the receiving end of this fallacy. I consider myself to be somewhat musically open to all genres. On my iPod I have a wide swath of music including Hip-Hop, Hard Rock, Metal, Lounge, Lo-Fi, Classic R&B, Electronic, and even Classical, but that has not excused me having this fallacy used on me as a reason for not liking a certain artist.
If you feel that you do not have enough information or a sound enough argument to discuss the reasons for your liking an artist/song/album with someone who disagrees, and find yourself about to commit this fallacy, stop yourself. The best course of action is agree to disagree. This ensures that you are the bigger person and shows that you can accept others with different opinions.
Unfortunately, most people seem willing to not take this advice and continue to falsely accuse others of favoring music that neither the endorsing nor dissenting parties enjoy. This willful ignorance is just one reason why I and others are misanthropes.
Next up, the “Hater Fallacy” in Hip-Hop.
Just Know That I Hate You
First things first: WordPress, you need to update this WP7 app for landscape support. I would think this a no-brainer since a great number of people have keyboards AND writing sideways isn’t the most comfortable or logical.
Secondly, this is where I will be telling you why I hate humanity. Enjoy.
