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Composition Fallacy


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Composition Fallacy

The composition fallacy is a type of logical fallacy that occurs when an individual assumes that the characteristics of a group or collective are the same as the characteristics of its individual members. This fallacy is based on the incorrect assumption that the whole is equal to the sum of its parts. The composition fallacy can be seen in various contexts, such as in economics, politics, and everyday life. For example, in economics, the composition fallacy can occur when an individual assumes that the success of a particular industry or sector is indicative of the success of the entire economy. This assumption is flawed, as the success of one industry or sector does not necessarily reflect the success of the entire economy. Similarly, in politics, the composition fallacy can occur when an individual assumes that the views or opinions of a particular group of people are representative of the views or opinions of the entire population. This assumption is also flawed, as the views or opinions of a particular group of people do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the entire population. It is important to note that the composition fallacy is not always a fallacy. In some cases, the characteristics of the individual members of a group may indeed be representative of the characteristics of the group as a whole. However, it is important to exercise caution when making assumptions about a group or collective based on the characteristics of its individual members. In conclusion, the composition fallacy is a type of logical fallacy that occurs when an individual assumes that the characteristics of a group or collective are the same as the characteristics of its individual members. This fallacy can occur in various contexts and can lead to flawed assumptions and conclusions. It is important to exercise caution when making assumptions about a group or collective based on the characteristics of its individual members.

logical fallacy, group characteristics, individual members, flawed assumptions, caution

Michael Smith

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Composition Fallacy

The composition fallacy is a cognitive bias that happens when a person incorrectly assumes that the characteristics of a group of things will be the same as the characteristics of individual things that make up the group. For example, an 8 year old might think that a basketball team made up of good players will necessarily be a good team. However, this may not be the case, as the team must work together in order to be successful.

Composition bias, cognitive fallacy, logical error.

Thomas Lee

214038
Composition Fallacy

The composition fallacy is a cognitive bias which occurs when an individual makes an assumption that the whole of something is equal to the sum of its parts. This fallacy often arises when people make assumptions about a group or collective after they have observed the individual members of said group. For example, if a person perceives a group of people to have a certain attribute that is held by each individual in the group, they may assume that the group as a whole has the same attribute. This assumption is incorrect, as the properties of the individual members do not necessarily reflect the properties of the collective.

Composition fallacy, cognitive bias, logical fallacy, inductive reasoning.

Jessica Adams


Composition Fallacy Definition
Composition Fallacy on Design+Encyclopedia

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