May 18, 2025 · A complex question assumes the answer to a hidden question, trapping the respondent in their reply. Common examples of complex questions include asking if someone has stopped a …

The complex question fallacy is a type of informal fallacy which occurs when the speaker asks two questions in one, such as “Have you stopped beating your wife?”

Abstract: The fallacy of Complex Question (traditionally known as fallacia plurimum interrogationum) is discussed and explained with illustrative examples and self-grading quizzes.

Begging the Question: Assumes the answer within the question itself. Strawman Fallacy: Misrepresents someone's argument to make it easier to attack. Ad Hominem: Attacks the person instead of …

The very same question may be loaded in one context, but not in the other. For example, the previous question would not be loaded were it asked during a trial in which the defendant has already …

Aug 3, 2017 · Let us look at a few examples. The classic example of the fallacy is “Have you stopped beating your wife?” If one treats this as a legitimate question, the recipient can only answer “Yes” or …

Aug 31, 2009 · Similar to the question-begging epithet is the fallacy called complex question. This is the interrogative form of begging the question—when the arguer attempts to persuade by asking a …

Apr 9, 2024 · Complex question fallacies can be found in various contexts, including politics, debates, surveys, interviews, and everyday conversations, where they are used to influence opinions, trap …

In everyday conversations, the complex question fallacy often appears subtly, embedding an unproven assumption within the query itself, forcing the respondent into an awkward position regardless of …

The 'Complex Question' fallacy combines two unrelated items into a question that requires a single answer.