Red Herring
Introducing an irrelevant topic or issue to divert attention away from the original subject of discussion.
Examples
- Person A: We should discuss improving the school's math curriculum. Person B: But first, we need to address the poor condition of the school building.
- Person A: Studies show this medication has dangerous side effects. Person B: But what about the thousands of people who die from not having any medication at all?
- Person A: The senator voted against environmental protections. Person B: The senator has always been committed to creating jobs and boosting the economy.