Which logical reasoning error involves attributing an outcome to a single cause without considering other factors?

Which logical reasoning error involves attributing an outcome to a single cause without considering other factors?

• A. Simplistic reasoning
• B. Reductionism
• C. Causal oversimplification
• D. Post hoc reasoning

Answer: (C)

The logical reasoning error involving the attribution of an outcome to a single cause, while disregarding the possibility of other contributing factors, is known as causal oversimplification. This specific error occurs when one assumes that a complex situation can be explained by a singular cause, ignoring the multifaceted nature of causation that often exists in real-world scenarios. For example, if a community experiences an increase in crime rates and someone attributes this solely to the presence of a new mall, they are engaging in causal oversimplification. In reality, many other factors could influence crime rates, such as socioeconomic conditions, law enforcement practices, and community programs. This tendency to simplify causation ignores the nuances present in most situations, which often involve multiple interconnected causes and effects. Causal oversimplification can lead to misguided beliefs and ineffective solutions, as it overlooks the broader context needed to fully understand an issue.

The logical reasoning error involving the attribution of an outcome to a single cause, while disregarding the possibility of other contributing factors, is known as causal oversimplification. This specific error occurs when one assumes that a complex situation can be explained by a singular cause, ignoring the multifaceted nature of causation that often exists in real-world scenarios.

For example, if a community experiences an increase in crime rates and someone attributes this solely to the presence of a new mall, they are engaging in causal oversimplification. In reality, many other factors could influence crime rates, such as socioeconomic conditions, law enforcement practices, and community programs.

This tendency to simplify causation ignores the nuances present in most situations, which often involve multiple interconnected causes and effects. Causal oversimplification can lead to misguided beliefs and ineffective solutions, as it overlooks the broader context needed to fully understand an issue.