However, being popular does not mean logically correct. The majority of the population does not necessarily understand the complexities of the macroeconomy, genetic research, or environmental quality. Majority votes on policies designed to stabilize business cycles, reduce unemployment, or control inflation might produce popular, but ineffective or even counter productive results. While it might seem somewhat elitist, in some cases experts really do know best.

Here are some examples of the fallacy of mass appeal:

• A commercial touts the OmniMotors XL GT 9000 sports utility vehicle as the best sports utility vehicle on the market because 9 million have been sold.


• Another commercial promotes that blockbuster movie, "Brace Brickhead, Medical Spy," as the best movie to see this weekend because it was the top revenue grossing movie last weekend.


• A Congressional representative argues that the United States should invade Canada because recent polls show that no one really likes hockey or Canadians.

Hopefully the mass-appeal fallacies contained in each example is easily seen. The best sports utility vehicle or movie, especially the best one for a particular person, is not necessarily the one everyone else likes, buys, or thinks is best. And while a majority of Americans might not like or understand hockey, this alone does not justify an invasion of Canada.