Strengths and Weaknesses of Arguments Reasoning Questions

1. Country D has implemented a universal basic income program, and poverty rates have decreased. Therefore, all countries should adopt universal basic income to reduce poverty. Which of the following, if true, would most weaken this argument?

Universal basic income is expensive to implement

Country D's economy was already improving before the program was implemented

Not all citizens in Country D receive the basic income

Other countries have different economic structures

2. A survey shows that people who read news online are more informed about current events. Therefore, reading news online is the best way to stay informed. What is the main flaw in this argument?

The survey may have a small sample size

Not everyone has access to the internet

It confuses correlation with causation

Being informed about current events is not the only measure of knowledge

3. A nutritionist claims that a low-carb diet is the most effective for weight loss. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this claim?

Low-carb diets can be difficult to maintain long-term

Studies show that low-carb diets lead to faster initial weight loss compared to other diets

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy

Many people enjoy eating carbohydrate-rich foods

4. A study finds that students who listen to classical music while studying perform better on tests. Therefore, listening to classical music improves cognitive function. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this conclusion?

Classical music is known to have a calming effect

The study was conducted on a small sample size

Students who choose to listen to classical music may have other study habits that contribute to better performance

Some students find background music distracting

5. Company Y's sales increased after they started using social media influencers for marketing. Therefore, all companies should use influencer marketing to increase sales. What is the main flaw in this argument?

Influencer marketing can be expensive

Not all products are suitable for influencer marketing

The argument generalizes based on a single case

Some consumers don't trust influencer recommendations

6. A company claims that their new smartphone app helps users fall asleep faster. In a study, participants who used the app reported falling asleep 15 minutes faster on average. Therefore, the app definitely improves sleep onset. What is the main weakness of this argument?

The study relies on self-reported data

The app may have side effects

The study doesn't specify how long the app was used

Not everyone owns a smartphone

7. A company claims that their new sunscreen provides the best protection because it has the highest SPF. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this claim?

The sunscreen is more expensive than competitors

Sun protection depends on various factors, not just SPF

The company has a history of producing quality skincare products

Many consumers prioritize SPF when choosing sunscreen

8. A company claims that their new smartphone app helps users save money. In a study, app users reported spending less money on average than non-users. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this claim?

The app is free to download

Users who downloaded the app were already more likely to be budget-conscious

The study was conducted over a six-month period

The app provides personalized financial advice

9. A study finds that people who drink moderate amounts of coffee have a lower risk of certain diseases. Therefore, drinking coffee prevents these diseases. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this conclusion?

Coffee contains antioxidants

The study was conducted over many years

People who drink moderate amounts of coffee often have other healthy habits

Coffee consumption has increased in recent years

10. A study shows that students who listen to classical music while studying perform better on tests. Therefore, schools should play classical music during all exams. Which of the following, if true, would most weaken this argument?

Not all students enjoy classical music

The study was conducted on a small group of students

Some students perform better in complete silence

Classical music can be distracting for some people