AWA Identifying Logical Fallacies 3

Question 1

A writer claims: 'Ancient Greeks used olive oil as medicine, so it must be an effective remedy.' This appeals to:

Accepted Answer

Appeal to tradition

Answer

Appeal to tradition assumes a practice is valid or correct because it has historical precedent, which is not sufficient justification.

Question 2

In an AWA argument, the author states: 'Our product is made from all-natural ingredients, so it is safe for consumption.' The fallacy present is:

Accepted Answer

Appeal to nature

Answer

The appeal to nature fallacy equates 'natural' with 'safe' or 'good,' ignoring that many natural substances are harmful.

Question 3

An argument states: 'Senator X voted against the defense budget once; clearly she hates the military.' This distorts the senator's position, making it an example of:

Accepted Answer

Straw man

Answer

A straw man misrepresents an opponent's actual position to make it easier to attack.

Question 4

Which scenario exemplifies the 'bandwagon' fallacy?

Accepted Answer

'Millions of people believe this diet works, so it must be effective.'

Answer

The bandwagon fallacy (ad populum) argues something is true or good simply because many people believe or do it.

Question 5

An author writes: 'You must be pro-war if you don't support peace negotiations.' This presents a:

Accepted Answer

False dichotomy

Answer

A false dichotomy (either/or fallacy) reduces a complex issue to two mutually exclusive options when other possibilities exist.

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test

(AWA) Analytical Writing Assessment Practice Test

AWA Identifying Logical Fallacies 3