The Latin phrase "post hoc ergo propter hoc" is commonly used to refer to the logical fallacy of assuming that a correlation between two events implies a causal relationship between them. Pronounced /poʊst hoʊk ˈɛrɡoʊ ˈprɑptər hoʊk/ (POHST hohk ER-goh PRAHP-tuhr hohk), the spelling of this phrase reflects the traditional Latin spelling and pronunciation. However, because it is commonly used in English discourse, the pronunciation may vary slightly depending on the speaker's native language and accent.
Post hoc ergo propter hoc is a Latin phrase that translates to "after this, therefore because of this" in English. It refers to a logical fallacy that occurs when someone assumes that one event happening after another event is evidence of a cause-and-effect relationship between the two, even though the connection is not necessarily established.
This fallacy is based on the faulty assumption that just because one event follows another in time, the first event must have caused the second event. However, correlation does not imply causation. The fact that Event B occurs after Event A does not automatically mean that Event A caused Event B.
When someone commits the post hoc ergo propter hoc fallacy, they fail to consider other factors and possible explanations that could have caused the observed outcome. It is essential to recognize that coincidences and timing do not always indicate causation.
To avoid this fallacy, it is crucial to examine the evidence critically and consider alternative explanations or factors that could contribute to the observed outcome. It is necessary to rely on logical reasoning, empirical evidence, and comprehensive analysis to establish a genuine cause-and-effect relationship between events, rather than drawing conclusions based on mere temporal proximity.