Avoiding The Question

One of the FallaciousArguments. Actually, this one isn't an argument at all--it's the practice of ducking a question that one cannot, or would prefer not, answer.

Ways to avoid the question. Often these are combined for greater effect.

• Attack the speaker--ArgumentAdHominem
• Respond with a question of your own--expecting the speaker to answer your question before you answer his.
• Question the legitimacy of the question (sometimes this is legitimate)
• Use a defense such as "isn't it obvious?" or "Everyone knows that"
• Attempt to change the subject
• Provide a non-answer (or a vague generalization that may or may not apply to the particular question--and which if it does, can be denied later).
• Provide generic references to the literature or some other authority
• Terminate the discussion ("Sorry, I have to go now..."). Especially popular with talk-show hosts.
• Answer the question you wish had been asked instead. The answer should be long enough that the real question is forgotten. Especially popular with politicians.