noun a logical fallacy in which the middle term in a syllogism is not distributed in either the major or minor premise
adjective describing the fallacy of undistributed middle
In philosophy, 'undistributed middle' can be used in discussions on deductive reasoning and logical fallacies.
In logic, the term 'undistributed middle' refers to a fallacy where the middle term in a syllogism is not distributed in either the major or minor premise.
In mathematics, 'undistributed middle' can refer to a mistake in a proof where a common factor is incorrectly left out of a distribution step.
In debates and arguments, 'undistributed middle' can be pointed out as a flaw in reasoning to discredit an opponent's argument.
In writing and rhetoric, the fallacy of undistributed middle is often used to point out faulty logic in arguments. Writers may use examples of this fallacy in their work to demonstrate the importance of clear and valid reasoning.
Psychologists may encounter the concept of undistributed middle when analyzing cognitive biases or logical errors in thinking patterns. They may use this fallacy to help clients identify and correct faulty reasoning in their thought processes.
Logicians frequently use the concept of undistributed middle when teaching about deductive reasoning and logical fallacies. They may provide examples of this fallacy to illustrate the importance of properly structured syllogisms.