The non sequitur is closely related to the post hoc argument. The non sequitur (Latin for “it does not follow”) occurs when the writer incorrectly links two events or draws a conclusion that contradicts its premise. We also use the term non sequitur to refer to nonsensical statements in general. Example:
Sensation’s sales force needs to be more aggressive in territories the company recently entered. How ironic, then, that Sensation has enjoyed a six-year track record of uninterrupted growth.
In the framework of this sentence, past results have nothing to do with current plans in a new area of business. In fact, the company might have enjoyed six years of uninterrupted growth precisely because it takes aggressive positions in new territories.
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