TMU Critical Analysis 3

Question 1

A paragraph states: 'All mammals are warm-blooded. Dolphins are mammals. Therefore, dolphins are warm-blooded.' This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Deductive reasoning

Answer

Deductive reasoning draws a certain conclusion from general premises that guarantee it.

Question 2

Which of the following would most weaken the argument that increasing minimum wage reduces employment?

Accepted Answer

Studies showing no significant job loss in regions that raised minimum wage

Answer

Empirical evidence of no significant job loss directly challenges the claim that minimum wage increases reduce employment.

Question 3

An unstated premise that an argument relies on to be valid is called a(n):

Accepted Answer

Assumption

Answer

An assumption is an unstated belief or premise the argument takes for granted.

Question 4

The phrase 'begging the question' in formal logic refers to:

Accepted Answer

Using the conclusion as one of the premises

Answer

Begging the question (circular reasoning) occurs when the conclusion is assumed within the premises.

Question 5

A politician states, 'My opponent has never run a business, so his economic plan will fail.' The reasoning flaw here is:

Accepted Answer

Ad hominem / genetic fallacy

Answer

Attacking someone's background rather than their argument is an ad hominem or genetic fallacy.

(TMU) Toronto Metropolitan University Exam Practice Test