Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Evaluating Argument Relevance 2

Question 1

Statement: 'Should the US require all new cars to be electric by 2035?' Argument: 'Yes, because electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, directly reducing urban air pollution.' Is this argument strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

Strong, because it directly addresses the environmental impact of the policy

Answer

The argument is strong because it provides a direct, relevant reason tied to the policy's stated environmental purpose.

Question 2

Statement: 'Should public libraries eliminate late fees?' Argument: 'No, because libraries were invented before the internet existed.' Is this argument strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

Weak, because the origin of libraries is irrelevant to the fee policy

Answer

The argument is weak because a library's historical origin has no logical bearing on whether late fees should exist today.

Question 3

Statement: 'Should employers be required to offer paid parental leave?' Argument: 'Yes, because research shows paid leave improves infant health outcomes and reduces employee turnover.' Is this argument strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

Strong, because it provides evidence relevant to both societal and business impacts

Answer

The argument is strong because it cites relevant evidence addressing both public health and employer interests.

Question 4

Statement: 'Should cities ban single-use plastic bags?' Argument: 'No, because plastic bags are made from petroleum, which is a fossil fuel.' Is this argument strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

Weak, because stating what plastic is made of doesn't argue against a ban

Answer

The argument is weak because identifying the material source of plastic bags does not constitute a reason to oppose a ban.

Question 5

Statement: 'Should high schools require students to pass a financial literacy course to graduate?' Argument: 'Yes, because many adults lack basic budgeting and debt management skills that lead to financial hardship.' Is this argument strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

Strong, because it identifies a real gap that the policy directly addresses

Answer

The argument is strong because it provides a direct, evidence-based reason why the proposed course would benefit students.

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Evaluating Argument Relevance 2