Critical Thinking Flashcards

Which of the following is the best example of inductive reasoning?

Answer: Observing that the sun has risen every day in history and concluding it will rise tomorrow

Inductive reasoning draws probable conclusions from patterns of specific observations.

What is the 'burden of proof' in an argument?

Answer: The responsibility of the person making a claim to provide evidence supporting it

The burden of proof lies with whoever makes a positive claim; they must support it with evidence.

A debate opponent shifts the subject when pressed on a weakness in their argument. This is called:

Answer: Red herring

A red herring introduces an irrelevant topic to distract from the original argument.

Which statement best describes 'begging the question'?

Answer: Using the conclusion as a premise in the argument without independent support

Begging the question is a circular fallacy where the conclusion is assumed in the premises.

Which practice helps reduce personal bias when evaluating an argument?

Answer: Actively seeking out and fairly considering perspectives that challenge your own

Steelmanning opposing views — engaging with their strongest form — reduces the influence of personal bias.

A news headline reads: 'Coffee Drinkers Live Longer.' What is the most critical follow-up question?

Answer: Was the study observational or experimental, and were confounding variables controlled?

Identifying the study design and whether confounders were controlled is essential before accepting a causal claim.

Which of the following logical forms is an example of 'modus tollens'?

Answer: If P then Q; Q is false; therefore P is false

Modus tollens denies the consequent to deny the antecedent: If P→Q and ¬Q, then ¬P.