Observe the following argument and find its correct form: 'A has characteristics of X and Y. B has characteristics of X and Y. A has a characteristic of Z. Therefore B has a characteristic of Z.'
AStatistical argument
BAn argument from authority
CMathematical argument
DArgument from analogy ✓ Correct
Correct answer: (D) Argument from analogy
Explanation
The reasoning is an argument from analogy.
A and B are said to share the features X and Y.
From A also having feature Z it is inferred that B has Z as well.
The move relies on the resemblance already noted between A and B.
Concluding a further shared property from known shared properties is analogical inference.
Its strength depends on how relevant the shared features are to the inferred one.
Want more like this? Create a free account to practise a full test, track your progress, and get spaced-repetition review.
Practise on Mcqkart →🎓 Book an expert →