LNAT Evaluating Argument Strengths 3

Question 1

An editorial argues: 'We should not listen to Dr. Smith's views on climate change because she once worked for an oil company.' Which flaw does this commit?

Accepted Answer

Ad hominem

Answer

Dismissing an argument based on the speaker's background rather than the argument's content is an ad hominem fallacy.

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of a valid deductive argument?

Accepted Answer

All mammals breathe air; whales are mammals; therefore whales breathe air

Answer

This syllogism is valid because if the premises are true, the conclusion must follow necessarily.

Question 3

A lawyer argues: 'My client must be innocent because the prosecution has not proven guilt beyond reasonable doubt.' Is this argument sound in the legal context?

Accepted Answer

Yes, because the legal standard requires the prosecution to bear the burden of proof

Answer

In criminal law, the prosecution bears the burden of proof; failing to meet that standard legally justifies acquittal.

Question 4

An argument uses the following structure: 'Either you support this policy or you don't care about children.' This is an example of which fallacy?

Accepted Answer

False dichotomy

Answer

The false dichotomy presents only two options when many intermediate or alternative positions exist.

Question 5

Which of the following would most strengthen an argument that a new drug reduces hospital readmission rates?

Accepted Answer

A randomized controlled trial showed significantly lower readmission in the drug group versus placebo

Answer

A randomized controlled trial with a placebo group provides the strongest causal evidence for the drug's effectiveness.

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT Evaluating Argument Strengths 3