Refraction (Bent Thinking) # 10

Equivocation: Using one term in two different ways (with two different meanings) in the same argument.  Refutation: Logic rules require that within a single argument, terms must have consistency of meaning. Changing the meanings of words within that argument renders the argument invalid. Example:   Adam: Betty, the constitution guarantees freedom of choice. Dudley’s girlfriend can’t afford an abortion; therefore she does not have the freedom of choice to have one. Therefore the constitution mandates that the government must pay for it. In the second usage, it refers to her lack of financial ability to carry out her cognitive decisions.

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