FSOT Logical Reasoning 5

Question 1

A task force concludes: 'Since Proposal A failed, we should adopt Proposal B.' The unstated assumption is:

Accepted Answer

Proposal B is the only remaining alternative

Answer

The jump from 'A failed' to 'adopt B' assumes B is the only other option — a false dilemma unless additional context supports it.

Question 2

In scheduling five meetings — V, W, X, Y, Z — Y must occur before W, and W must occur before Z. If X is third, which meeting CANNOT be first?

Accepted Answer

W

Answer

W must come after Y but before Z, so W needs at least two meetings before it; if X is third, W cannot be first.

Question 3

Country R's foreign minister says trade always follows the flag. Country S increased its diplomatic presence in Country T and trade with T declined. This evidence:

Accepted Answer

Provides a potential counterexample that weakens the claim

Answer

One counterexample weakens a universal claim but does not definitively disprove it — additional context may explain the anomaly.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of an ad hominem fallacy in foreign policy debate?

Accepted Answer

We should reject the ambassador's analysis because she once worked for a lobbying firm

Answer

Rejecting an argument based on the person's background rather than the argument's merits is an ad hominem fallacy.

Question 5

A demographic study shows that populations aged 15–24 are the fastest-growing segment in Country K. What policy inference is MOST logically warranted?

Accepted Answer

Country K should invest in youth employment and education programs

Answer

A rapidly growing youth population logically points to increased demand for education and employment — a data-supported, non-speculative inference.

FSOT Test Practice Test

FSOT Test Practice Test

FSOT Logical Reasoning 5