Weaken the Argument Flashcards
1
Q
correct answer to a weaken question does what?
A
indicates authors assumptions are invalid
2
Q
what may a correct answer to a weaken question that relies on sample data do?
A
show that the sample is not representative of the population about which conclusions are being drawn
3
Q
do we need to destroy an argument or simply find an answer choice that casts doubt on the conlusion given the premises?
A
simply cast doubt
4
Q
correct weaken answer choice types
A
- answer exposes a false dichotomy: occurs when an author incorrectly limits the number of possible conclusions to two
- an answer calls into question a cause & effect conclusion (can highlight the relationship being put forth in conclusion does not actually exist)
- Poking holes in extrapolation from sample to larger population
- exposing faulty comparisons upon which conclusions are drawn (ex: assuming it would take xx hours of training to get a wolf to roll over since thats how long it takes a dog)
- exposing faulty logic stemming for incorrect assumption about numbers and percentages (small % of large thing could be > large % of small thing)
- Pokes holes in authors “plan” with new information (ex: author addresses one factor in the situation, but correct answer IDs another factor the plan doesn’t account for)
- choice that shows that plan actually will work when the author argues it wont
5
Q
how will a trap choice appear appealing?
A
may say something that is related to argument and seems detrimental to conclusion but is not logically connected to the argument in a way that makes it damaging
6
Q
common incorrect answer types:
A
- strengthener — does opposite
- psuedo-weakener — give impression of weakening argument but don’t logically get the job done
- weaken support for the wrong conclusion
- choice that is pertinent and relevant but does not affect the argument
- choices that attack premises (which are to be taken as fact)
