Strengths and Weaknesses of Arguments Reasoning Questions

1. A new drug has shown promising results in treating cancer in laboratory mice. Therefore, this drug will be effective in treating cancer in humans. What is the main flaw in this argument?

The drug may have side effects

The drug may be expensive to produce

Results in mice don't always translate to humans

The study may not have been peer-reviewed

2. A politician argues that increasing funding for public libraries will improve literacy rates. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this argument?

Many people prefer e-books to physical books

Libraries offer various programs and resources beyond book lending

Communities with well-funded libraries have consistently higher literacy rates

Maintaining libraries is expensive

3. An economist argues that raising the retirement age will help solve the pension crisis. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this argument?

People are living longer on average than in previous generations

Many people prefer to retire early

Raising the retirement age may be unpopular with voters

Some jobs are physically demanding and difficult for older workers

4. A politician argues that reducing corporate tax rates will lead to job creation. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this argument?

Companies often use tax savings for stock buybacks

Lower corporate tax rates have led to increased hiring in other countries

Many companies already pay lower effective tax rates due to loopholes

Job creation is influenced by multiple economic factors

5. A study finds that people who drink coffee live longer on average. Therefore, drinking coffee causes increased longevity. What is the main weakness of this argument?

The study may not have controlled for other factors

Not everyone likes the taste of coffee

The study doesn't specify how much coffee was consumed

Coffee can have negative side effects

6. 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

7. An economist argues that raising the minimum wage will lead to job losses. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this argument?

Some small businesses operate on thin profit margins

Many workers support raising the minimum wage

Studies show that moderate minimum wage increases have minimal impact on employment

Higher wages can lead to increased consumer spending

8. A company claims that their new energy-efficient light bulbs will save customers money on their electricity bills. Which of the following, if true, most weakens this claim?

The light bulbs are more expensive to purchase initially

The energy savings are minimal in areas with low electricity costs

The light bulbs have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs

Many customers are already using energy-efficient lighting

9. A city council member argues that because bicycle accidents have increased, we should ban bicycles from city streets. What assumption does this argument make?

Banning bicycles is the only way to reduce accidents

The increase in accidents is solely due to bicycles

Bicycle riders are responsible for all accidents involving them

The public supports banning bicycles

10. 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