False Logic

Here's a list of common fallacies.

I think nearly all, if not all, Tim Keller's arguments fall into one of these catagories. Particularly this one: "Ignoratio elenchi" or an "Irrelevant conclusion".

"The fallacy of Irrelevant Conclusion consists of claiming that an argument supports a particular conclusion when it is actually logically nothing to do with that conclusion.

For example, a Christian may begin by saying that he will argue that the teachings of Christianity are undoubtedly true. If he then argues at length that Christianity is of great help to many people, no matter how well he argues he will not have shown that Christian teachings are true.

Sadly, these kinds of irrelevant arguments are often successful, because they make people to view the supposed conclusion in a more favorable light."

First he says what we believe depends on our culture and the people we hang around with. He's right. But this has nothing to do with his argument for the reasons for a god. In fact, it is the opposite. Ignoratio elenchi.

He then goes onto state that if you can't prove there is no god then there is one. This is a "Bifurcation".

"Also referred to as the "black and white" fallacy and "false dichotomy," bifurcation occurs if someone presents a situation as having only two alternatives, where in fact other alternatives exist or can exist."

He then goes on to list all the failed attmepts at disproving god. Again, this is an Irrelevant Conclusion and a false dichotomy, as failure to disprove god is not evidence for a god.

And it goes on...

A useful list if you're into debating.