Strengths and Weaknesses of Arguments Reasoning Questions

1. A school principal argues that implementing a school uniform policy will improve student discipline. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this argument?

Uniforms can be expensive for some families

Students often find ways to personalize their uniforms

Studies show no significant correlation between uniforms and student behavior

Many parents support the uniform policy

2. A politician argues that implementing stricter immigration policies will improve national security. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this argument?

Many citizens support stricter immigration policies

Implementing stricter policies is costly

Studies show no significant correlation between immigration levels and national security threats

Some industries rely heavily on immigrant labor

3. A new study shows that people who drink red wine have lower rates of heart disease. Therefore, drinking red wine prevents heart disease. What is the main weakness of this argument?

Red wine contains alcohol, which can be harmful in excess

The study may not have controlled for other dietary and lifestyle factors

Not all red wines are equally beneficial

The study doesn't specify how much red wine was consumed

4. A company claims that their new weight loss pill is effective because users lost an average of 15 pounds in two months. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this claim?

The pill has some mild side effects

The study did not include a control group taking a placebo

The pill is more expensive than competitors

Some users reported feeling less hungry while taking the pill

5. An environmental group argues that banning plastic straws will significantly reduce ocean pollution. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this argument?

Many people prefer using plastic straws

Plastic straws make up a very small percentage of ocean plastic waste

Alternative straw options are available

Some marine animals can be harmed by plastic straws

6. A school district plans to implement a year-round school calendar, arguing that it will improve student achievement. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this argument?

Year-round schooling has been successful in other districts

Students forget less material over shorter breaks

Studies show no significant difference in achievement between year-round and traditional calendars

Teachers prefer the year-round calendar

7. A study finds that people who drink green tea have a lower risk of heart disease. Therefore, drinking green tea prevents heart disease. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this conclusion?

Green tea contains antioxidants

The study was conducted over a long period

People who drink green tea often have other healthy habits

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide

8. A nutritionist claims that organic food is healthier than conventionally grown food. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this claim?

Organic food is often more expensive

Pesticide residues on conventional produce are generally within safe limits

Organic farming practices are better for the environment

Many people prefer the taste of organic food

9. Company X's employee satisfaction increased after they implemented a work-from-home policy. Therefore, all companies should implement work-from-home policies to increase employee satisfaction. Which of the following identifies the main flaw in this argument?

Work-from-home policies can be difficult to implement

Not all jobs can be done from home

The argument generalizes based on a single case

Some employees prefer working in an office

10. A survey shows that people who meditate regularly report lower stress levels. Therefore, meditation is the best way to reduce stress. What is the main flaw in this argument?

The survey may have a small sample size

Not everyone enjoys meditation

It confuses correlation with causation

Stress levels are not the only measure of well-being