What is circular reasoning in simple words?

Circular reasoning is when an argument uses its own conclusion as the reason. For example: “This book is the best because no other book is better.” The reason just repeats the claim in different words.

What is an example of circular reasoning?

“You can trust this news website because it only publishes reliable stories.” How do we know the stories are reliable? Because the website says so. The argument goes round in a circle.

What does “begging the question” mean?

In logic, begging the question means circular reasoning: assuming the thing you are trying to prove. In everyday English, many people use it to mean “raises the question.” In essays, use “raises the question” to avoid confusion.

Is circular reasoning always wrong?

A circular argument can be logically valid because the conclusion follows from the premise. The problem is that it gives no new evidence, so it cannot persuade anyone who does not already agree.

What is the difference between circular reasoning and a tautology?

A tautology is a statement that says the same thing twice, such as “a free gift.” Circular reasoning is an argument in which the reason and the conclusion say the same thing.

How can I avoid circular reasoning in my essays?

After each claim, ask “What is my evidence?” Then support the claim with facts, examples, studies or expert opinion that do not simply repeat the claim in new words.

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