Is a half a loaf the same as no loaf? (and other fallacious arguments)

An illusion can become a half-truth, a mask can alter the expression of a face. The familiar arguments to the effect that democracy is “just the same as” or “just as bad as” totalitarianism never take account of this fact. All such arguments boil down to saying that half a loaf is the same as no bread. In England such concepts as justice, liberty, and objective truth are still believed in. They may be illusions, but they are very powerful illusions. The belief in them influences conduct, national life is different because of them. In proof of which,look about you. Where are the rubber truncheons, where is the castor oil? The sword is still in the scabbard, and while it stays there corruption cannot go beyond a certain point.—George Orwell, A Collection of Essays, 261

<idle musing>
Well, I would say that in the US, the "illusions" are losing their appeal to far too many and corruption will soon run (even more) rampant. I'm camping in Habakkuk these days—and not just in chapter 3!
</idle musing>