Mastering Refutation and Counterargument

Which of the following is an example of a logical fallacy?

• If we don’t reduce pollution, future generations will suffer.

• Everyone is buying the new smartphone, so it must be the best.

• Studies show that eating vegetables improves health.

• The author provides evidence from a variety of sources to support the argument.

What is a counterargument?

• A reason given in opposition to another argument.

• A summary of the main points of an argument.

• A type of logical fallacy.

• A restatement of someone else's argument in your own words.

Identify the logical fallacy: "You shouldn't listen to Jerry's argument on climate change because he's not a scientist."

• Slippery slope

• Ad hominem

• Straw man

• False dilemma

Which of the following best demonstrates analyzing evidence in an argument?

• Repeating the same point in different words.

• Dismissing evidence because it is old.

• Examining the source, relevance, and reliability of the evidence.

• Accepting evidence that supports one's own view without question.

What is flawed reasoning?

• Arguments that are logically sound and well-supported by evidence.

• Arguments that rely on evidence from reputable sources.

• Arguments that contain mistakes in logic or rely on weak evidence.

• Arguments that effectively refute opposing viewpoints.

Which of the following is an effective strategy for presenting a refutation?

• Ignoring the strongest points of the opposing argument.

• Attacking the person who made the opposing argument instead of the argument itself.

• Acknowledging the opposing argument and providing evidence to counter it.

• Using emotional appeals instead of logical reasoning.

Identify the logical fallacy: "If we allow students to redo their assignments to improve grades, next they'll want to retake entire courses for a better GPA."

• Slippery slope

• Bandwagon

• False cause

• Hasty generalization

Evaluating opposing viewpoints involves:

• Dismissing viewpoints that are different from your own.

• Considering the validity and strengths of different viewpoints.

• Agreeing with every viewpoint to avoid conflict.

• Focusing only on viewpoints that support your argument.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a strong counterargument?

• It directly addresses points made in the original argument.

• It uses evidence from unreliable sources.

• It acknowledges the strengths of the original argument.

• It provides logical reasoning to support its claims.

Identify the logical fallacy: "We should not trust his argument on health care because he has been divorced twice."

• Appeal to authority

• Ad hominem

• Red herring

• Appeal to ignorance