BCA Critical Thinking 3

Question 1

Which argument structure is deductively valid?

Accepted Answer

If P then Q; P is true; therefore Q is true

Answer

Modus ponens (If P then Q; P; therefore Q) is a classically valid deductive form.

Question 2

What distinguishes an inference from an observation?

Accepted Answer

An observation is directly perceived; an inference is a conclusion drawn from evidence

Answer

Observations are direct sensory experiences; inferences interpret or explain those observations.

Question 3

Which scenario demonstrates confirmation bias?

Accepted Answer

A student only reads articles that support his pre-existing opinion on a topic

Answer

Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek out information that confirms one's existing beliefs.

Question 4

An argument is considered sound when it is:

Accepted Answer

Valid and all its premises are true

Answer

Soundness requires both logical validity and the truth of all premises.

Question 5

Which rhetorical device appeals primarily to emotion rather than logic?

Accepted Answer

Telling a heartbreaking personal story to oppose a policy

Answer

Appealing to pathos uses emotional stories to persuade rather than logical evidence.

(BCA) Bergen County Academies Practice Test