Uber's False-Cause Fallacy

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A Fast Company report gives us a great example of a false-cause fallacy: "Uber Cures Leprosy."

Uber cures leprosy

The video pokes fun at Uber's claim that the service reduced the number of drunk driving incidents. Last year, Uber and MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) announced a partnership that includes donations to the organization. However, a news release by MADD, although complimentary of Uber's service, doesn't imply causation:

"The report released today builds upon a study conducted by Uber in May 2014, which estimated that the entrance of Uber in Seattle coincided with a more than 10% reduction in the number of arrests for DUI. "

On the other hand, Uber's promotional materials do:

"A new report conducted in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) reveals that when empowered with more transportation options like Uber, people are making better choices that save lives."

Discussion Starters:

  • Is this just a difference in semantics or something more?
  • Is the Fast Company video too critical of Uber?
  • What fallacy does the Fast Company reporter use in comparing Uber's claim to curing leprosy?