GRT GRT Critical Thinking

Question 1

A study shows that employees who drink coffee in the morning are 20% more productive. The company concludes it should provide free coffee to boost productivity. What is the main flaw in this reasoning?

Accepted Answer

Correlation does not imply causation

Answer

The study shows a correlation between coffee drinking and productivity, but does not prove that coffee causes the productivity increase.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes an 'ad hominem' argument?

Accepted Answer

Attacking the person making the argument rather than the argument itself

Answer

An ad hominem fallacy attacks the character or credibility of the person rather than addressing the substance of their argument.

Question 3

All managers at the firm have MBAs. Sarah has an MBA. What can be correctly concluded?

Accepted Answer

Sarah may or may not be a manager at the firm

Answer

Having an MBA is a necessary condition for being a manager at the firm, but it is not sufficient — Sarah could have an MBA without being a manager there.

Question 4

A company argues: 'Our product has never been proven unsafe, therefore it is safe.' This statement is an example of which fallacy?

Accepted Answer

Appeal to ignorance

Answer

An appeal to ignorance (argumentum ad ignorantiam) incorrectly claims that lack of evidence against something proves it is true.

Question 5

Which of the following would MOST strengthen the argument that a new policy reduced workplace accidents?

Accepted Answer

Accident rates fell in departments that adopted the policy but not in those that did not

Answer

Comparing departments that adopted the policy versus those that did not provides a controlled comparison that most directly supports a causal relationship.

(GRT) Graduate Recruitment Test Practice Test

(GRT) Graduate Recruitment Test Practice Test

GRT GRT Critical Thinking