Fallacy of relevance?

The fallacy of relevance, also known as the red herring fallacy, occurs when an argument or statement is made that is not directly related to the issue at hand. Instead of addressing the actual topic or question, the person introducing the fallacy attempts to divert attention by bringing up a different, often unrelated, point.

This fallacy is a tactic commonly used in debates or discussions to distract or confuse the audience, rather than providing a valid response. By introducing an irrelevant point, the person committing the fallacy hopes to shift the focus away from the original topic and potentially manipulate the audience's perception or opinion.

For example, if a person is discussing the benefits of implementing stricter gun control laws, and someone responds by saying, "But what about the Second Amendment and our right to bear arms?" This response is a red herring because it diverts attention from the original topic of stricter gun control laws and instead focuses on the constitutional right to bear arms, which is not directly relevant to the discussion at hand.

In summary, the fallacy of relevance occurs when an argument or statement is made that is not directly related to the topic or question being discussed, with the intention of diverting attention or manipulating the audience.