The Non Sequitur Fallacy: A Logic Stumble

The Non Sequitur Fallacy: A Logic Stumble

Have you ever heard someone say something that just doesn't quite make sense? Or, have you ever seen a logic puzzle where the conclusion doesn't follow from the premises? That's what we call a non sequitur fallacy!

What is a Non Sequitur Fallacy?

The term "non sequitur" is a Latin phrase that means "it does not follow." In logic, a non sequitur fallacy occurs when a conclusion does not logically follow from the premises presented. This can happen when the reasoning is flawed or when there is a disconnect between the evidence and the conclusion.

Examples of Non Sequitur Fallacies

Here's an example: If someone says, "John likes to eat ice cream. Therefore, the moon is made of cheese." This is a non sequitur because liking ice cream has nothing to do with the composition of the moon!

Avoiding the Non Sequitur Fallacy

To avoid falling into the trap of the non sequitur fallacy, it's important to follow a logical chain of reasoning. Make sure that your conclusions are supported by the evidence and that they logically follow from the premises.

Conclusion

Understanding the non sequitur fallacy can help us become better critical thinkers and avoid making illogical arguments. So, next time you hear someone make a statement that seems to come out of nowhere, you can impress them by identifying it as a non sequitur!