which of the following represents a post hoc prpter... course hero

What is the post hoc fallacy?

Literally translated “After this, therefore caused by this,” the post hoc, ergo propter hoc fallacy is a fallacy of causal induction. ¹ Fallacies of induction are committed when one incorrectly infers a conclusion or consequence of some kind. The post hoc, ergo propter hoc fallacy is committed when one infers that something is the cause of something else merely because the “first thing is observed to occur before the second thing.”² Consider A and B, where A represents an event or thing and B represents another event or thing that occurs after A. The fallacy is committed when when one infers that A is the cause of B simply because it occurs prior to B.

Is post hoc ergo propter hoc a fallacy?

As already mentioned, post hoc ergo propter hoc, is not a fallacy that is commonly committed, because most recognize that one cannot base a conclusion solely on the antecedent occurrence of something. Just remember, A occurring prior to B does not entail that A is the cause of B: prior occurrence, though a necessary condition, is not a sufficient condition for causation.

Why is the entire team the best in the league?

Just because all the players are the best individual players, does not mean they will be the best team. Great teams require more than just individual talent, they also need teamwork and chemistry.

Why is Thunder Lope a good mascot?

Thunder Lope is a good mascot because Thunder Lope is good. We stated that Thunder Lope is a good mascot and our reason for believing this is because he is good. This type of reasoning does not advance understanding or add to knowledge. When we use the circular reasoning fallacy in our writing, our argument goes nowhere and literally moves in a circle providing no real evidence.

Is post hoc ergo propter hoc?

Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc can also be the source of superstitious thinking. Think about an athlete who wears his 'lucky' socks and the team wins the game, you might conclude that wearing 'lucky' socks leads to winning. Maybe you break a mirror and then soon after you get into an accident, you might conclude that breaking the mirror led to that misfortune. These occurrences are merely coincidental and are not the reason for one's misfortune.