In political debate it is not uncommon to hear a phrase such as this: “no true Republican/Democrat would support such a proposition.” The problem with this fallacious argument is that it ignores the fact that a person can make a valid argument for an idea, even if that idea doesn’t fit one’s ideal of a particular party candidate or a particular party’s platform, and still be a Republican or Democrat.
Once the “no true Scotsman” moniker is proposed, the debate then focuses on what constitutes a true Republican or Democrat, rather than a discussion about the idea being proposed. As you listen to political debate, see if you can recognize the “No True Scotsman” fallacy.
