Principles of Reasoning: Argument and Debate Jilly Cooke

PHIL:1636:0002 4-26-22

Written Assignment #35

Exercises 4C

II. Read the following passages. If an argument commits a weak inductive argument

fallacy, then identify the specific fallacy. If a passage does not contain a fallacy, then answer

“No fallacy.” Explain your answers.

26. I read that the city’s closed circuit video surveillance cameras that are positioned

to watch for traffic violations are being stolen. Apparently, the thieves can sell the

electronic equipment to unscrupulous companies. The city then had the bright idea

to install a second set of cameras to watch the ones observing the traffic. This led to

the thieves stealing the second set of cameras so they wouldn't be seen stealing the

traffic ones. It's obvious where this is going. Pretty soon the city will have to install a

third set, and then a fourth set, and then have someone stationed 24 hours a day

watching each camera. In the end, this will bankrupt the city.

Slippery slope.

27. In one of my dreams last week, I saw a car wreck, but I was not in the car. I just

heard that my aunt had a fender-bender in the mall’s parking lot. This shows that

dreams are videos sent from the future to warn us of dangers in the present.

Hasty generalization.

28. Every time I bet on our team, they lose. And every time I don't bet, they win. It

follows that my betting on them causes them to lose.

Composition.

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Principles of Reasoning: Argument and Debate Jilly Cooke

PHIL:1636:0002 4-26-22

29. A large survey of SUV owners revealed that 80% believe that global warming is

a hoax intended to get them to give up their vehicles. This shows that the vast

majority of Americans don't believe that global warming is real.

Biased sample.

30. When I get on a bus, it's usually first come, first served. In other words, if a seat

is available, you take it. But they have a sign on the bus that asks people to give up

their seats for older people, people with infirmities, or someone who is pregnant. I

think it should be the same for everyone. If I'm lucky enough to get a seat, why

should I have to give it up?

Rigid application of a generalization.

31. Since the 1950s, our society has become increasingly more violent. It's obvious

what has caused this to happen. Check the facts. As the number of television sets

bought by consumers rose every year, so did crime.

Post hoc.

32. You forgot to water your plants for 3 weeks and now they are dead. Clearly, the

lack of water caused their untimely demise.

No fallacy.