Letter to the editor: Sites are needed for disposal

Answer choices

1. A

   Doesn't Distort View4% picked this

   The argument distorts the editor's view in a manner that makes that view seem more

   We don't hear anything about the editor's view other than "your approach". It's hard to distort someone's view if you just say "your view". This answer refers to a famous flaw called Straw Man. It would feel more like Person A saying "I think we should install solar panels on the roof" and Person B saying, "Well, I'm not so sure we should be spending all the company's money on green initiatives".

   4%
2. B

   Out of Scope: "alternative approach"19% picked this

   The argument fails to establish that the alternative approach referred to is

   The conclusion is only about whether this approach would or wouldn't damage commercial fishing operations. The author is under no burden to argue that the other approach is viable or even preferable.

   19%
3. C

   Out of Scope: "self-interest"4% picked this

   The argument attempts to establish a particular conclusion because doing so is in the letter writer's self-interest rather than because of any genuine concern

   We don't know anything about this writer so there's no way for us to say that this letter is in the writer's self-interest. Also, it's not inherently bad to make an argument out of self-interest. We don't have to be genuinely concerned with the truth to still say truthful things and argue in a logical manner.

   4%
4. D

   Correct70% picked this

   The argument's conclusion is based on the testimony of people who have not been shown

   Why this is right

   The conclusion is based on testimony: it's the testimony of 20,000 people. We have no idea who they are. They might be exiting a Whole Foods. Do they know anything about burying contaminated dredge spoils? Do they know anything about commercial fishing operations? This answer describes the Inappropriate Appeal to someone with dubious expertise on the matter.

   Skill tested: Flaw · how this choice captures the argument's function is the move to repeat next time.

   70%
5. E

   Out of Scope: "3rd option"3% picked this

   The argument takes for granted that no third option is available that will satisfy all

   We don't even care about the second option. The conclusion is only about whether or not the first option will damage commercial fishing operations. This answer describes the famous flaw of False Choice.

   3%