Which reasoning flaw occurs when someone makes a conclusion based on an irrelevant factor?

The reasoning flaw that arises when a conclusion is drawn from an irrelevant factor is known as a non sequitur. This term, which translates from Latin as "it does not follow," refers to an argument where the conclusion does not logically follow from the premises. In this case, when someone bases a conclusion on a factor that is unrelated to the argument or discussion at hand, the reasoning is inherently flawed because the evidence provided does not support the conclusion being drawn.

Non sequiturs can often manifest in everyday conversations and debates, where individuals make assertions that seem disconnected from the preceding statements or logical flow of the argument. For instance, if someone argues that a particular brand of toothpaste is superior because it has a catchy advertisement, they are utilizing an irrelevant factor that doesn't directly relate to the effectiveness of the toothpaste itself. This flaw undermines the strength of the argument and can lead to misunderstandings or misinformed beliefs.