fallacy of secundum quid

logic

Also known as: a dicto simpliciter ad dictum secundum quid

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The fallacy of secundum quid, also known as the fallacy of accident, occurs in logic when a general rule is applied to a specific case where a special circumstance makes the rule inapplicable. This fallacy arises from a confusion between unqualified and qualified forms of a statement, essentially applying a general principle without considering its limitations or exceptions.12

For example, stating that "men are capable of seeing" does not logically support the conclusion that "blind men are capable of seeing" because the special circumstance of blindness makes the general rule inapplicable.1

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