Logical ErrorsWhat they are and how to fix them

Circular Reasoning

Definition: Trying to prove a statement by repeating it in different words

Fix: Give specific reasons to prove the statement

Examples:

Too much sugar is bad for children because it isn’t good for them.

Too much sugar is bad for children because it rots their teeth.

Overgeneralization

Definition: Making a statement that is too broad to prove

Fix: Avoid using words like always, everyone, never, and use words like many, most of the time, etc.

Examples

Everyone loves Christmas.

Many people love Christmas.

Either/Or Fallacy

Definition: Claiming that there is only one possible solution when there are many

Fix: Acknowledge different solutions and explain them

Examples

Either we raise taxes or the government will shut down.

Government must take many steps to raise revenue and curb spending or it will shut down.

Cause-and-Effect Fallacy

Definition: Assuming that because one event follows another, the second event is caused by the first

Fix: Identify all possible causes and explain them

Examples

Too many violent video games in our society cause violence.

Movies, video games, lack of values, and lack of adult supervision can all contribute to violence in society.