Genetic Fallacy

Genetic Fallacy: This conclusion is based on an argument that the origins of a person, idea, institute, or theory determine its character, nature, or worth.

The Volkswagen Beetle is an evil car because it was originally designed by Hitler’s army.

In this example the author is equating the character of a car with the character of the people who built the car. However, the two are not inherently related.

Redressing the fallacy

The fallacy ignores what we know: that change is possible. Invite the person making the fallacy to reflect on the possibility that change occurs. We cannot assume that something is the way it is simply because it was that way in the past. If there is evidence that something has changed, present that evidence to your interlocutor.