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Joint Effect
Definition:
One thing is held to cause another when in fact both are the
effect of a single underlying cause. This fallacy is often
understood as a special case of post hoc ergo prompter hoc.
Examples:
- We are experiencing high unemployment which s being
caused by a low consumer demand. (In fact, both may be
caused by high interest rates.)
- You have a fever and this is causing you to break out in
spots. (In fact, both symptoms are caused by the measles.)
Proof:
Identify the two effects and show that they are caused by the
same underlying cause. It is necessary to describe the
underlying cause and prove that it causes each symptom.
References
(Cedarblom and Paulsen: 238)
06 October 1995
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