Common errors in reasoning, also known as logical fallacies, are flaws in argumentation that weaken the logic or validity of a conclusion. Some of the most frequent errors include:
Common Errors in Reasoning (Logical Fallacies)
- Non Sequitur : The conclusion does not logically follow from the premises. For example, assuming expensive homes are well built simply because they are costly
- Argument to the People (Ad Populum) : Appealing to emotions or popular opinion rather than facts to persuade
- False Comparison (Faulty Analogy) : Comparing two things that are not sufficiently alike to justify the conclusion
- Circular Reasoning (Begging the Question) : Assuming the truth of what needs to be proved, essentially restating the claim as evidence
- Red Herring : Introducing irrelevant information to distract from the main argument
- Bandwagon Appeal : Arguing something is true or right because many people believe it
- Unsupported Generalization : Drawing broad conclusions from insufficient or specific examples
- Poisoning the Well : Undermining an argument by preemptively discrediting the source or opposition without addressing the argument itself
- Cause and Effect Errors : Mistaking correlation or coincidence for causation
- Either-Or (False Dilemma) : Presenting only two options when others exist
- Questionable Authority : Citing an authority who is not an expert on the subject
- Contradiction and Inconsistency : Making statements that conflict with each other within the same argument
- Omission : Leaving out necessary information that affects the argument’s validity
Additional examples from broader lists include:
- Hasty Generalization : Making a rushed conclusion without considering all variables
- Exaggeration : Overstating a point to make it seem more significant than it is
- Confusing Explanation with Excuse : Treating an explanation as justification for an action
These errors can lead to illogical or weak arguments and are important to recognize for critical thinking and effective reasoning
Understanding these fallacies helps in evaluating arguments critically and constructing sound reasoning.
