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Check with AICheckNon Sequitur Fallacy
Also known as: Does Not Follow
What is Non Sequitur?
A non sequitur (Latin for 'it does not follow') occurs when a conclusion is drawn that has no logical connection to the premises or evidence presented. The reasoning makes a leap that is not supported by the information given. While the premises and conclusion may each be true individually, there is no valid logical bridge connecting them.
Example
A hiring manager is reviewing candidates for a software engineering position.
“She's an excellent marathon runner, so she'll definitely be a great software engineer.”
Athletic ability has no logical connection to software engineering skill. While discipline from marathon training could theoretically be beneficial, stating it as proof of engineering competence is a logical leap without supporting reasoning.
How to Spot It
- The conclusion seems to come out of nowhere relative to the evidence provided.
- There is no clear logical connection between the premises and the conclusion.
- The argument requires an unstated assumption that, once examined, does not hold up.
- You find yourself thinking 'how does that follow?' after hearing the argument.
How to Counter It
- Ask the person to explain the logical connection between their premises and conclusion.
- Identify the missing link in the reasoning chain.
- Present a counter-example showing why the same premises could lead to a different conclusion.
- Request additional evidence that directly supports the conclusion.
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