Flawed Parallel ReasoningDiff: Easy
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: Some argue we shouldn't limit population growth because every time the population goes up, the economy seems to grow right along with it.
Conclusion: Society should not implement measures to control population growth.
Reasoning: Historical data shows that increases in population have been followed by increases in economic growth, suggesting a causal link between the two.
Analysis: This argument falls into the classic 'correlation equals causation' trap, specifically the 'post hoc' variety where one assumes that because B followed A, A must have caused B. It’s like assuming your lucky socks caused your team to win just because you wore them during the championship. To find the parallel flaw, look for a choice that observes a sequence of events and then concludes that the first event is a necessary cause that should be encouraged or left alone.
Conclusion: Society should not implement measures to control population growth.
Reasoning: Historical data shows that increases in population have been followed by increases in economic growth, suggesting a causal link between the two.
Analysis: This argument falls into the classic 'correlation equals causation' trap, specifically the 'post hoc' variety where one assumes that because B followed A, A must have caused B. It’s like assuming your lucky socks caused your team to win just because you wore them during the championship. To find the parallel flaw, look for a choice that observes a sequence of events and then concludes that the first event is a necessary cause that should be encouraged or left alone.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage6.The questionable pattern of reasoning in the argument above is most similar to that in which one of the following?
Correct Answer
B
It matches the pattern: concern about the manager’s aggressive behavior (X), but sales are increasing (benefit Y), therefore no action should be taken about the behavior. This parallels dismissing population control because population increases are accompanied by economic growth.
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