Critical Reasoning Techniques (PS)

Question 1

What are the 5 categories of cause/effect assumption questions?

Answer 1

Eliminates an alternative cause for the stated effect
Shows that when the cause occurs, the effect occurs
Shows that when the cause does not occur, the effect does not occur
Eliminates the possibility that the relationship is in reverse
Shows that the data used to make causal statements are accurate or eliminates possible problems with data.

Question 2

What are 3 common weakening scenarios?

Answer 2

Incomplete Information - The author fails to consider all the possibilities or relies upon evidence that is incomplete. This can be attacked by supplying new possibilities
Improper Comparison - The author attempts to compare two or more items that are essentially different
Overly Broad Conclusion - The author draws a conclusion that is broader or more expansive than the premises support