Circular Reasoning

Definition

Circular reasoning is a logical fallacy that occurs when the conclusion of an argument is used as a premise to support the original claim. It is a form of logical circularity where the reasoning goes in a loop, failing to provide independent justification for the initial premise.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Circular reasoning is a logical fallacy that is commonly encountered in informal arguments and discussions.
2. It is considered a fallacy because it fails to provide any independent justification for the initial claim, instead relying on the claim itself as evidence.
3. Circular reasoning is often used to create the illusion of a valid argument, when in reality, it is a logical loop that does not lead to a sound conclusion.
4. The fallacy can be difficult to detect, as the reasoning may seem logically sound at first glance, but upon closer examination, it becomes clear that the conclusion is being used to support the premise.
5. Identifying and avoiding circular reasoning is an important skill in critical thinking and logical analysis.

Review Questions

• Explain how circular reasoning differs from other types of logical fallacies.
  • Circular reasoning is distinct from other logical fallacies in that it involves a logical loop where the conclusion is used to support the premise, and the premise is used to support the conclusion. This contrasts with other fallacies, such as ad hominem or appeal to authority, which rely on irrelevant or inappropriate evidence to support a claim. The key feature of circular reasoning is the lack of independent justification for the initial premise, making the argument logically invalid.
• Analyze how circular reasoning can be used to create the illusion of a valid argument.
  • Circular reasoning can be particularly persuasive because the argument may initially appear to be logically sound. By using the conclusion as a premise, the reasoning can seem to follow a coherent logical structure. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that the argument is not actually providing any new or independent evidence to support the initial claim. This creates the illusion of a valid argument, when in reality, the reasoning is circular and fails to provide a sound justification for the original premise.
• Evaluate the importance of identifying and avoiding circular reasoning in critical thinking and logical analysis.
  • The ability to identify and avoid circular reasoning is a crucial skill in critical thinking and logical analysis. Circular reasoning can be used to mislead and manipulate, as it creates the appearance of a valid argument without providing any real justification. By recognizing and avoiding this fallacy, individuals can better evaluate the strength and validity of arguments, and make more informed and well-reasoned decisions. Developing the capacity to identify and critique circular reasoning is an essential component of developing strong critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities.

Related terms

Begging the Question:

A type of circular reasoning where the conclusion is assumed in one of the premises, often by using the conclusion as a premise.

Logical Fallacy: An error in reasoning that renders an argument invalid or unpersuasive, even though the premises may be true.

Logical Circularity: The situation where the reasoning goes in a loop, with the conclusion being used to support the premise, and the premise being used to support the conclusion.