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

Bias in reasoning often operates through hidden assumptions; identifying those assumptions is key to recognizing and countering bias.

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

Correlation shows that two variables move together but does not establish that one causes the other; a third variable or reverse causation could explain the relationship.

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

Selection bias in media occurs when coverage choices systematically over-represent or under-represent certain groups, distorting the audience's perception of reality.

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

The genetic fallacy dismisses an argument based on its origin or the speaker's motives rather than evaluating its actual logical merits.

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

An argument that only presents evidence from one side, while ignoring contrary viewpoints, is a strong indicator of bias.

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Practice Test

Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal Recognizing Bias in Reasoning 3