Pointing out a classic fallacy is hardly a quibble, and certainly not a question of semantics.
On the other hand, yes, it's quite true that all arguments appear in a specific context. I think we must live in quite different political contexts, though, because I don't see anything in the article that implies a decline in educational standards.
Comments
This kind of "I never said that" semantic quibble raises one essential question: Have you stopped beating your elderly mother yet?
Things have implications beyond their explicit claims.
The two quibbles above seem nearly identical to me. It's interesting what role the assumptions of the audience play in their reaction to a statement.
I assumed that a snopes link would credit or discredit the claim (that this was a test from 1895.)
Pointing out a classic fallacy is hardly a quibble, and certainly not a question of semantics.
On the other hand, yes, it's quite true that all arguments appear in a specific context. I think we must live in quite different political contexts, though, because I don't see anything in the article that implies a decline in educational standards.
I've always preferred "Do you still beat your wife?"
Rolls off the tongue better.