ABSTRACT
If someone tries to make a point by analogy illegitimately, you can do various things. Simply denying the analogy is the most straightforward ('We're talking about the universe, not a tapestry!'). Carefully dissecting it (as I did the Tapestry Argument in the last chapter) may be the best, if the situation allows it. If it does not, you might try to turn the analogy to your own ends ('If the tapestry has a messy side, the weaver can't be all-powerful!'). If that won't work, find a counter-analogy that supports your own case. But if you want to do this honestly, be careful: analogies invite us to beg the question. The analogy that comes first to mind will almost certainly be inspired by the conclusion we want to reach.
(Revision) What is 'begging the question'?
Suppose I defend a policy that will cause a lot of suffering by saying 'You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs.' Think of some ripostes.
