Depending on the intention, which of the following informal fallacies may be involved in the argument: 'I am shocked to hear you preaching atheism. Does your father know you believe that?'

1.Appeal to authority

2.Appeal to emotion

3.Appeal to majority

4.Appeal to force

A1 & 4 only ✓ Correct

B1 & 2 only

C2 & 4 only

D2 & 3 only

Correct answer: (A) 1 & 4 only

Explanation

Depending on intent the remark can be either an appeal to authority or an appeal to force, items 1 and 4.

Invoking "does your father know" treats the father's view as settling the matter, an appeal to authority.

The same question can carry a veiled threat of paternal displeasure, an appeal to force.

In neither reading is the truth of atheism actually addressed by evidence.

The persuasion rests on an outside pressure rather than on the merits of the claim.

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