Recognizing Bias in Reasoning Flashcards
7 cards from real Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Recognizing Bias in Reasoning flashcards as text
In Watson-Glaser critical thinking, recognizing bias is most directly related to which foundational skill?
Answer: Identifying assumptions that underlie arguments
Bias in reasoning often operates through hidden assumptions; identifying those assumptions is key to recognizing and countering bias.
A study finds that people who own pets report higher happiness scores. The researcher concludes that owning a pet causes happiness. Which error is present?
Answer: Confusing correlation with causation
Correlation shows that two variables move together but does not establish that one causes the other; a third variable or reverse causation could explain the relationship.
A news outlet consistently covers crimes committed by one demographic group far more than proportional crime statistics would justify. This reporting pattern most clearly reflects:
Answer: Selection bias
Selection bias in media occurs when coverage choices systematically over-represent or under-represent certain groups, distorting the audience's perception of reality.
A debater responds to a colleague's argument by saying: 'You can't trust that conclusion — the scientist who published it owns stock in the company that would benefit.' Without additional evidence, this response commits which error?
Answer: Genetic fallacy (ad hominem)
The genetic fallacy dismisses an argument based on its origin or the speaker's motives rather than evaluating its actual logical merits.
Which approach is MOST effective when trying to identify bias in a written argument?
Answer: Examine whether evidence from only one perspective is consistently presented
An argument that only presents evidence from one side, while ignoring contrary viewpoints, is a strong indicator of bias.
A clinical trial for a new medication shows very positive results. Upon review, it emerges that the trial was fully funded by the drug's manufacturer. Which concern is most relevant?
Answer: The study may reflect selection bias due to the funder's financial interest in a positive outcome
Funding bias occurs when a study's sponsor has a financial stake in the outcome, which can introduce systematic bias in study design, data collection, or reporting.
Which of the following BEST describes 'in-group bias' as it applies to critical reasoning and argument evaluation?
Answer: Evaluating evidence more favorably when it originates from members of one's own group
In-group bias leads people to apply lower scrutiny and greater credibility to arguments and evidence coming from those they identify with, undermining objective evaluation.