Non sequitur ("it does not follow") is a Latin term that simply means that the conclusion doesn't follow from the premise.
Example of a non sequitur
Premises
- Science can’t explain the origin of life
- Science can’t explain gaps in the fossil record
Disputed conclusions
- Therefore evolution is false and God created us as shown in the 1st or 2nd Chapter of Genesis, therefore further Jesus is God’s son.
- Therefore evolution is false and Allah created us as shown in the Koran.
- Therefore evolution is false and the gods/goddesses of our polytheistic religion created us as shown in our sacred texts.
Analysis
- The first premise is correct, science can’t explain yet the origin of life.
- The second premise is false, see talk origins on Transitional fossils.
- Even if both premises were true that would in no way show that any one religion or sect has the true explanation for life.
- Further natural explanations that science has not yet found are in no way ruled out.