Structural Fallacies Quiz

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What does it mean for an argument to have a 'structural flaw'?

It relies on invalid deductive inferences

It uses contradictory reasons

It has premises that contradict the conclusion

The conclusion does not logically follow from the premises (correct)

Which of the following best describes the structural criterion of a good argument?

Ensuring the conclusion logically follows from the premises (correct)

Drawing invalid deductive inferences

Using reasons that contradict each other

Having premises that contradict the conclusion

Why is it important to recognize and name fallacies that violate the structural criterion of a good argument?

To confuse others in a debate

To make arguments more complex

To highlight the faulty reasoning patterns (correct)

To win arguments at all costs

In the context of fallacies, what is circular reasoning?

Relying on the truth of the conclusion to support the premises Signup and view all the answers

How do fallacies that violate the structural criterion affect the quality of an argument?

Prevent the conclusion from logically following from the premises Signup and view all the answers

What is a fundamental requirement of a well-formed argument according to the text?

Ensuring no contradiction between premises and conclusion Signup and view all the answers

What is the structural flaw in Professor Scruggs' argument?

Begging the question Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best characterizes the argument between Professor Scruggs and the student?

Circular reasoning Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the text, what is the best way to address someone committing the fallacy described?

Point out how their language affects objectivity Signup and view all the answers

What type of fallacy is committed if someone uses emotionally charged words like 'egregious' or 'unforgivable' without providing evidence?

Loaded language Signup and view all the answers

If a person insists on a conclusion without presenting reasons beyond restating that conclusion, what logical flaw is present?

Circular reasoning Signup and view all the answers

What could be an effective response when faced with someone who uses circular reasoning in an argument?

Point out the circular logic being employed Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fallacy uses language that implicitly assumes the truth of the conclusion about the issue?

Arguing-in-a-circle fallacy Signup and view all the answers

What is the flaw in begging-the-question fallacies?

They assume the truth of the conclusion in their premises. Signup and view all the answers

Why are fallacies of inconsistency considered flawed?

They use premises that are incompatible with each other. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does an arguing-in-a-circle fallacy operate?

By actually using the very conclusion as one of its premises. Signup and view all the answers

Why are all the fallacies of deductive inference considered flawed?

They violate well-established rules of deductive logic. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern in determining the inappropriateness to draw any conclusion from an argument's premises?

The form or structure of the argument Signup and view all the answers