| Definition:
The fallacy of proving something by using a premiss that is itself in as much need of proof as the conclusion.
|
| Example:
Capital punishment is necessary because it reduces the number of homicides.
|
| Etymology:
In Latin petitio means "asking or begging."
|
Oxford English Dictionary: The term's first OED citation is from 1531: "Which kynde of disputyng schole men call Petitio principii, the prouyng of two certaine thynges, eche by the other, and is no prouyng at all."
(Tindale Expos. 1 John v. 1–3 Wks. (1573) 420/1) |