CCTST Logical Fallacies 2

Question 1

A senator argues: 'We must either pass this bill immediately or our economy will collapse.' What fallacy is this?

Accepted Answer

False dilemma

Answer

False dilemma (false dichotomy) presents only two options when more alternatives actually exist.

Question 2

"Everyone on social media is sharing this article, so it must be true." This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Bandwagon fallacy

Answer

The bandwagon fallacy assumes something is true or correct because many people believe or do it.

Question 3

Which best describes the 'tu quoque' fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Dismissing a claim because the person making it also violates it

Answer

Tu quoque ('you also') deflects criticism by pointing out the critic's own similar behavior rather than addressing the argument.

Question 4

A scientist's climate research is dismissed because she once worked for an oil company. Which fallacy is most clearly illustrated?

Accepted Answer

Genetic fallacy

Answer

The genetic fallacy judges an argument's validity based on its origin or source rather than its content.

Question 5

"We shouldn't trust John's opinion on immigration policy because he isn't a citizen." This commits which fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Ad hominem (circumstantial)

Answer

Circumstantial ad hominem dismisses an argument based on the arguer's personal circumstances rather than the argument's merit.

(CCTST) California Critical Thinking Skills Test Practice Test