“Post hoc, ergo propter hoc”
First Makes Second
What is Post hoc, ergo propter hoc?
Assuming that because something happened first, it caused whatever happened next.
Business Application
Determining causality is complicated so never stop experimenting. Dig deeper, think harder, examine everything and development will eventually come easier.
Example 1
“I just read this one book on being a better entrepreneur and I’m doing so much better with my business!”
Why This is a Fallacy
You might be becoming a better entrepreneur because you’re now taking a deeper interest in self improvement, the book itself may have had little or no impact.
Example 2
“I started saying “can you please” instead of “would you” when making requests from people and it’s way more effective! Everyone needs to do this now!”
Why This is a Fallacy
Your slight variation in word choice could also be marked with a change in tone or you may be suffering from confirmation bias.
