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vicious circle

logic
Also known as: circulus in probando

Quick Summary

A "vicious circle" in logic refers to a type of circular argument where the premise assumes the truth of the conclusion, rather than providing independent support. This creates a flawed reasoning process because the argument essentially states that something is true because it is true.1

A more complex form, known as a "vicious cycle" or "vicious spiral," describes a chain of events where a response to one problem creates a new issue that exacerbates the original difficulty. This creates a self-perpetuating negative loop. The term originally referred to circular arguments but evolved to describe this chain of events.234

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