Discussion Activity 3 Answer Key University of British Columbia PHIL 120

Module #3: Dialectic

Group Discussion Activity

1. Determine whether each of the following contains an Ad Ignorantiam argument. If
yes, determine further whether it involves an Ad Ignorantiam fallacy. Also indicate
whether there is the fallacy of complex question present in each of the cases. Answer
Y (Yes) or N (No) in the corresponding blanks.

1) UFO's exist because their non-existence has not been proven beyond a shadow
of doubt in a scientifically approved way.
Ad Ignorantiam argument? [Y]
Ad Ignorantiam fallacy? [Y]
Fallacy of complex questions? [N]

2) In spite of all the talk, not a single flying saucer report has been authenticated.
We may assume, therefore, there are not such things as flying saucers.
Ad Ignorantiam argument? [Y]
Ad Ignorantiam fallacy? [Y]
Fallacy of complex questions? [N]

3) Since the class has no questions concerning the topics discussed in the lectures, I
assume the class is ready for a test.
Ad Ignorantiam argument? [Y]
Ad Ignorantiam fallacy? [Y]
Fallacy of complex questions? [N]

4) “Accounts by eye witnesses’ are the ‘fruit of their imagination’, the official news
agency said.” [New York Times]
Ad Ignorantiam argument? [Y]
Ad Ignorantiam fallacy? [Y]
Fallacy of complex questions? [N]




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