What is a 'red herring' fallacy?

The concept of a 'red herring' fallacy is well understood in critical thinking and argumentation as a tactic that diverges from the main issue. It involves introducing an irrelevant topic or piece of information that distracts from the original argument or question at hand. This can lead the audience away from the core issue, making it appear as if a point is being made without addressing the actual argument.

In the context of this question, the distraction does not provide any useful information regarding the original argument, which is why it is classified as a fallacy. Recognizing a red herring is essential for effective critical thinking, as it helps one stay focused on the relevant aspects of the debate or discussion, rather than getting sidetracked by unrelated material. Understanding this fallacy can help individuals critically analyze arguments and maintain clarity in discussions.