2 Fallacies of Assumption

what are fallacies of assumption

occurs when an argument appears to offer proof but actually depends on unstated, unproven, or unjustified assumptions.

Begging the Question

assumes the conclusion within the premises instead of proving it. The argument’s starting point already depends on accepting what it sets out to prove. No independent support is offered.

Circular Reasoning

repeats the conclusion as support for itself using different words. It creates a logical circle where no new information is added. The proof and the claim are the same idea in different phrasing. It fails to demonstrate anything beyond what it presumes. The structure loops without external justification.

Complex Question (loaded question)

embeds one or more assumptions into a single question, forcing agreement with the assumptions if the question is answered directly. It presumes something that has not been established. The format of the question hides the presumption. It traps the respondent by offering no neutral answer

False Dilemma

presents two options as if they are the only possibilities when others exist. It falsely limits the range of choices. The assumption is that no middle ground or alternative exists. It pressures the audience to accept one extreme or the other

Slippery Slope

assumes that accepting one event will lead to a chain of events ending in disaster, without showing how each step necessarily follows. It treats a sequence of outcomes as inevitable without evidence.

Accident (Misapplied General Rule)

wrongly applies a general rule to a specific case where it doesn't fit. It assumes the rule has no exceptions. The argument ignores relevant details that would qualify or limit the rule

Converse Accident (Hasty Generalization)

forms a broad general rule based on a special or exceptional case. It assumes what is true in one instance must be true in all. The argument draws a sweeping conclusion from insufficient data. It treats the unusual as typical.

No True Scotsman

redefines a category to exclude counterexamples in order to protect a generalization. It assumes only those who meet a shifting definition count. The claim is insulated from disproof by altering the criteria.

Question-Begging Epithet (loaded label)

uses emotionally loaded or biased language that assumes the conclusion is already true. The description contains the judgment. The argument does not prove the claim—it just labels it.