Overgeneralization Overgeneralization Writers and speakers can exaggerate in a number of ways. Statements that make sweeping generalizations tend to exaggerate and oversimplify reality. Generalizations are often useful in persuasion if they are worded carefully and if there is evidence to support them as generalizations. To suggest that air pollution generally reduces our life expectancy is not an overgeneralization. Attempting to predict people s behaviors tends to overgeneralize.
People often infuse stereotypes into logical reasoning, leading to more overgeneralized conclusions.
In times of crisis, every American supports his President. This statement is an overgeneralization because it assumes too much to be proven possible. Until every American can be contacted and surveyed, this statement cannot be proven valid. We can correct this mistake by clarifying how many people profess to support the President, and under what conditions they would not. Beware of statements that are too broad to be valid or contain all or nothing language.