Definition:Circular Proof

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Definition

A circular proof is a proof $A$ in terms of another proof $B$ such that the truth value of $B$ depends (either directly or indirectly) on the truth value of $A$.

A circular proof is valid, as every statement implies itself.

The problem of a circular proof is that if the truth of a conclusion is dubious, premises that are equally dubious provide no reason to support the conclusion.


Also known as

A circular proof is sometimes known as a vicious circle in the proof.


Also see


Sources