Logical Fallacy: Begging the Question

Begging the question definition

Assuming that whatever you are trying to prove is true without any evidence other than the argument itself.

True or False This begs the question: The number of primary colors is 3; so, the number of primary colors is a prime number.

False

True of False: "People like to eat because we are biologically influenced to eat," is begging the question.

False, this is an exception because humans being biologically influenced to eat are universally accepted.

What is circular reasoning/argument?

Reasoning that ends and begins in the same place. No evidence is offered.

An easy way to remember what begging the question is...

Think of a circle or undo button. The argument has no support as it goes back to the original statement. You can also think of a question mark on someones back as people raise questions off of the argument that has little support.

True of false: This commits begging the question: "The reason everybody wants the new Barbie doll is because it's the hottest toy of the season!"

True, it stills begs the question of why the toy is the hottest of the season.

Why is this sentence begging the question?: "You should drive on the right side of the road because that's what the law says, and the law is the law."

When someone questions why they should drive on the right side of the road they are questioning the law. The answer "because that is the law" is assuming the validity of the law.

True or False The following argument commits the fallacy of begging the question: Some people don't like chocolate chip cookies; if some people don't like chocolate chip cookies, then chocolate chip cookies should be banned from grocery stores.

true