LNAT Formulating Persuasive Arguments 4

Question 1

A politician says: 'Crime rates fell after we introduced Policy X. Therefore, Policy X reduced crime.' What logical error does this commit?

Accepted Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc assumes that because B followed A, A caused B, ignoring other possible explanations for the outcome.

Question 2

Which of the following best demonstrates the use of a 'limiting concession' in a persuasive argument?

Accepted Answer

'While free speech is a fundamental right, it does not extend to incitement of violence.'

Answer

A limiting concession acknowledges the value of a competing principle while narrowing its application to prevent it from defeating your own argument.

Question 3

In persuasive legal writing, what is the purpose of a 'thesis paragraph'?

Accepted Answer

To state your central claim and the main reasons supporting it

Answer

A thesis paragraph declares your central position and signals the key supporting reasons, giving the reader a clear framework for evaluating the argument.

Question 4

Which of the following examples best illustrates an argument from analogy?

Accepted Answer

'Regulating social media is like regulating a utility — both are essential public infrastructure.'

Answer

An argument from analogy draws on the similarities between two cases to argue that what holds for one should hold for the other.

Question 5

Which approach is MOST effective when the weight of empirical evidence contradicts your position in a persuasive essay?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the evidence, then argue it is outweighed by other considerations or has methodological limits

Answer

Acknowledging and then contextualizing or qualifying contrary evidence is more credible and persuasive than pretending it does not exist.

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT Formulating Persuasive Arguments 4