Which term describes the fallacy of introducing irrelevant information into an argument?

The term that describes the fallacy of introducing irrelevant information into an argument is Red Herring. This refers to a tactic where a speaker or writer diverts attention away from the main issue by presenting an unrelated topic, thus misguiding the audience and sidetracking the discussion. The goal is often to confuse or distract from the original argument or question at hand.

In debates or discussions, the introduction of a Red Herring can disrupt critical thinking and impede constructive dialogue, as it shifts focus away from important points. Understanding this fallacy is essential for evaluating the strength of arguments in both written and spoken discourse. Recognizing when a Red Herring is used can help participants remain focused on the central issues rather than being led astray by irrelevant details.