What is the term for using a single anecdote as a basis for a broad conclusion, even if it is an unusual circumstance?

Anecdotal evidence refers to drawing a conclusion based on a single instance or anecdote rather than on robust statistical or empirical evidence. This approach can lead to misleading conclusions, as the anecdote may be an outlier or an exceptional case that doesn’t represent a broader trend. Using a personal story or an extraordinary situation to make claims about a wider population can skew perception and lead to errors in judgment. This reasoning highlights the potential pitfalls of relying on insufficient data to justify general statements. In critical thinking, it is important to seek out comprehensive evidence rather than relying on isolated cases to inform conclusions.