Definition

1. Noun:
   • An unintentionally invalid argument: A paralogism is a piece of reasoning that is flawed or fallacious, but where the error is made accidentally, not with the intent to deceive. It represents a logical mistake in the structure of an argument.

Usage

• The term "paralogism" is a formal word used primarily in philosophy, logic, and critical thinking to classify and discuss errors in reasoning. It describes an argument that is invalid due to a mistake in its logical form, but where the person making the argument believes it to be sound.

Examples

• Noun:
  • His conclusion was based on a subtle paralogism that confused correlation with causation.
  • The philosopher pointed out the paralogism in the student's essay, showing where the deductive chain broke down.

Advanced Usage

• "To commit a paralogism": To make an unintentional logical error in an argument.
  • Even experienced debaters can occasionally commit a paralogism under pressure.

Variants and Related Words

• Paralogistic (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of a paralogism.
  • The paralogistic nature of the claim became apparent upon closer examination.

Synonyms

• Fallacy: A mistaken belief or argument based on unsound reasoning. (Note: "Fallacy" is broader and can include intentional deception, while "paralogism" specifically denotes an unintentional error.)
• Sophism: A fallacious argument, especially one used deliberately to deceive. (This contrasts with "paralogism," which lacks intent to deceive.)

Related Concepts

• Informal Fallacy: A type of fallacy that arises from errors in the content or context of an argument, rather than its formal structure. A paralogism can be an informal fallacy.
• Non Sequitur: A conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement. This is a common form a paralogism can take.

Noun

1. an unintentionally invalid argument