Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Identifying Logical Fallacies Questions and Answers 4

Question 1

A debater claims: 'My opponent's plan to reduce taxes is just a way to help the rich get richer.' The opponent actually proposed a targeted tax credit for low-income earners. Which fallacy is this?

Accepted Answer

Straw man

Answer

The straw man fallacy misrepresents an opponent's position to make it easier to attack.

Question 2

A company's CEO says: 'Since every part of our manufacturing process is efficient, our entire factory must be the most efficient in the industry.' This commits the:

Accepted Answer

Composition fallacy

Answer

The composition fallacy incorrectly assumes that what is true of parts must be true of the whole.

Question 3

A reviewer writes: 'Since this novel won a prestigious award, it must be well-written and enjoyable for all readers.' Which fallacy does this commit?

Accepted Answer

Appeal to authority

Answer

Appeal to authority incorrectly uses an expert judgment (award committee) as definitive proof for a subjective universal claim.

Question 4

'Many people believe that working hard guarantees success, so it must be true.' This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Bandwagon fallacy (argumentum ad populum)

Answer

The bandwagon fallacy treats widespread belief as evidence of truth, regardless of actual supporting evidence.

Question 5

During a debate on climate policy, a senator changes the subject to argue about the country's economic growth record. This tactic is known as:

Accepted Answer

Red herring

Answer

A red herring introduces an irrelevant topic to divert attention from the original argument.

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Identifying Logical Fallacies Questions and Answers 4