Circular reasoning is nothing more than a word game against the audiences’ reasoning skills. It may also be referred to as “begging the question”. It portrays two things as different, when in reality, they are the same thing. This type of reasoning is either a diversion from the real issue of concern, or used as a defense/hypocrisy tactic by pointing out subtle differences that another party may be doing. There is a sense of validity that accompanies this type of argument.

An example of this is the Orlando Skypex Roller Coaster. This is a new attraction that is planned to be built on International Drive in Orlando Florida. The main opponent of Skyplex is Universal Studios. The local theme park is using a circular reasoning tactic as a means for justifying their stance against the park. They are proposing that the construction of the roller coaster is different, and will have a different impact on the local environment than the park itself. Their argument is that it will cause noise pollution and be a visual eyesore. The logic that Universal is using is that “roller coasters near homes are fine, but a large ride in a tourist district is a problem.” They are both the same thing, just worded differently.