Formulating Persuasive Arguments Flashcards
7 cards from real LNAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Formulating Persuasive Arguments flashcards as text
A lawyer argues: 'Every witness who has ever lied should be dismissed. This witness lied once. Therefore, dismiss this witness.' Which flaw best describes this argument?
Answer: It applies an absolute rule without justification
The argument treats 'ever lied' as an absolute disqualifier without providing justification for why one instance warrants complete dismissal.
Which rhetorical technique involves conceding a point to the opposing side before reinforcing your own argument?
Answer: Concession and rebuttal
Concession and rebuttal strengthens credibility by acknowledging opposing points before demonstrating why your position still prevails.
In a persuasive essay arguing for stricter gun control, which evidence would be MOST logically compelling?
Answer: Peer-reviewed data showing correlation between gun ownership rates and homicide rates across nations
Peer-reviewed comparative data provides the strongest logical foundation because it is empirical, systematic, and controlled for multiple variables.
What does it mean to 'steel-man' an opposing argument in a persuasive context?
Answer: Presenting the strongest possible version of the opposing argument before refuting it
Steel-manning means engaging with the best version of an opposing argument, which demonstrates intellectual honesty and makes your refutation more persuasive.
An argument concludes: 'We must ban all social media because teenagers who use it report higher anxiety.' What additional information would most strengthen this argument?
Answer: Evidence that social media use causes rather than merely correlates with anxiety
Establishing causation rather than mere correlation is essential to justify a ban, since correlation alone does not prove social media produces anxiety.
Which of the following best illustrates the persuasive technique of 'framing'?
Answer: Describing a policy as 'protecting lives' versus 'restricting freedom'
Framing shapes how an audience perceives an issue by selecting particular language or context that favors one interpretation over another.
A debater claims: 'Opponents of this policy have never run a business, so their economic objections are irrelevant.' This is an example of which fallacy?
Answer: Ad hominem (circumstantial)
Circumstantial ad hominem dismisses an argument based on the speaker's circumstances rather than the content of their reasoning.