#236: Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc, Poisoning the Well & the Typical Mind Fallacy

3 Ideas in 2 Minutes on Fantastic Fallacies

I. Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc

The last two times I washed my car, it rained the next day. I guess I control the weather now.

Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc — Latin for after this, therefore because of this — is a common logical fallacy that confuses temporal sequence with causation. It’s the chronological version of the Causation Trap, the infamous principle that correlation does not imply causation.

Just because one event happened after another doesn’t mean the first event has caused the second. It’s tempting to draw such connections where none exist, especially when the timing feels too perfect to be a coincidence. But without real evidence of a causal link, we’re mistaking pattern for proof.

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II. Poisoning the Well

Poisoning the Well is a form of propaganda that involves discrediting an opponent’s argument before it’s even presented. This is done by disseminating negative information or making negative assumptions about an opposing viewpoint. As a result, the opposition gets discredited since the tactic creates a bias in the audience before they have a chance to hear the other side.

When the source (or well) of information is corrupted, distrust in the actual message is almost guaranteed. A related phenomenon is the Contagion Heuristic. This mental shortcut leads us to avoid people or objects that were in touch with someone or something we consider contaminated. How comfortable would you be wearing a T-shirt that belonged to the person you despise the most? The same applies if we think of personal beliefs as valuable possessions.

👉 Taken from my article with 10 Propaganda Techniques: How to Manipulate the Masses

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III. Typical Mind Fallacy

I love writing these weekly newsletters on critical thinking. I can’t imagine anyone finding them boring. These little nuggets of insight excite me, so I assume it’s the same for everyone. I mean, it seems obvious that 3 Ideas in 2 Minutes is invaluable brain food. I’m genuinely puzzled why half the literate world hasn’t subscribed yet.

Send help, because I’ve fallen victim to the Typical Mind Fallacy (with a hint of self-importance). It’s a cognitive error where someone assumes that their own mental states, perceptions or thought processes are representative of everyone else’s. In other words, people project their own understanding, feelings, preferences or judgments onto others, assuming these experiences are universal.

However, the fallacy isn’t necessarily about being wrong. It’s about mistaking your own experience for a standard. Related concepts include the Curse of Knowledge and Purple Belt Living. 🐘

Have a great week,

Chris
themindcollection.com