Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Recognizing Bias in Reasoning 3

Question 1

In Watson-Glaser critical thinking, recognizing bias is most directly related to which foundational skill?

Accepted Answer

Identifying assumptions that underlie arguments

Answer

Performing mathematical calculations

Answer

Recalling memorized facts accurately

Answer

Demonstrating verbal fluency

Question 2

A study finds that people who own pets report higher happiness scores. The researcher concludes that owning a pet causes happiness. Which error is present?

Accepted Answer

Confusing correlation with causation

Answer

Selection bias

Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Anchoring bias

Question 3

A news outlet consistently covers crimes committed by one demographic group far more than proportional crime statistics would justify. This reporting pattern most clearly reflects:

Accepted Answer

Selection bias

Answer

Confirmation bias

Answer

Framing effect

Answer

Hindsight bias

Question 4

A debater responds to a colleague's argument by saying: 'You can't trust that conclusion — the scientist who published it owns stock in the company that would benefit.' Without additional evidence, this response commits which error?

Accepted Answer

Genetic fallacy (ad hominem)

Answer

Circular reasoning

Answer

False dilemma

Answer

Straw man

Question 5

Which approach is MOST effective when trying to identify bias in a written argument?

Accepted Answer

Examine whether evidence from only one perspective is consistently presented

Answer

Check whether the argument is lengthy and detailed

Answer

Verify that the writing uses a formal tone

Answer

Confirm the argument includes more than two citations

Question 6

A clinical trial for a new medication shows very positive results. Upon review, it emerges that the trial was fully funded by the drug's manufacturer. Which concern is most relevant?

Accepted Answer

The study may reflect selection bias due to the funder's financial interest in a positive outcome

Answer

The sample size is almost certainly too small to be meaningful

Answer

The technical language prevents general audiences from evaluating the findings

Answer

The absence of a stated hypothesis invalidates the study

Question 7

Which of the following BEST describes 'in-group bias' as it applies to critical reasoning and argument evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Evaluating evidence more favorably when it originates from members of one's own group

Answer

Assuming that the position held by the largest group must be correct

Answer

Preferring expert opinion over personal experience in all circumstances

Answer

Dismissing all anecdotal evidence regardless of context