What is it called when someone believes that if an idea is good for one circumstance, it applies universally?

The concept being described relates to the belief that an idea or principle that works well in one specific instance should be effective in all situations. This line of thinking is known as causal oversimplification. It occurs when someone oversimplifies a complex issue by incorrectly asserting that a cause that applies in one case automatically applies to other, different cases without considering the contextual factors at play.

Recognizing causal oversimplification is crucial in argumentation and critical thinking because it highlights the need for careful analysis of circumstances before generalizing conclusions. It emphasizes that while an idea may have merit in one context, it does not necessarily possess universal applicability without further evidence or reasoning. This kind of reasoning often leads to flawed conclusions and can be misleading in discussions where nuance and variability are essential.