TMU Critical Analysis 2

Question 1

A researcher claims that since violent crime rates dropped after a new policing strategy was introduced, the strategy caused the reduction. What logical flaw does this argument contain?

Accepted Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc assumes causation from temporal sequence alone, ignoring other possible explanations.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes an 'inference' in critical reasoning?

Accepted Answer

A conclusion drawn from evidence beyond what is explicitly stated

Answer

An inference goes beyond stated facts to reach a conclusion supported by but not contained in the evidence.

Question 3

An author argues that either we ban social media entirely or our democracy will collapse. Which fallacy is illustrated?

Accepted Answer

False dilemma

Answer

A false dilemma presents only two options when other alternatives exist.

Question 4

When evaluating a study, a critical reader notices the sample consisted only of university students. This is a concern about:

Accepted Answer

Representativeness of the sample

Answer

A non-representative sample limits the ability to generalize findings to broader populations.

Question 5

Which statement about correlation and causation is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Correlation is necessary but not sufficient to establish causation

Answer

While causation typically produces correlation, correlation alone cannot confirm that one variable causes the other.

(TMU) Toronto Metropolitan University Exam Practice Test

(TMU) Toronto Metropolitan University Exam Practice Test

TMU Critical Analysis 2