Source attack

(Source)

An argument that attacks the source of a view instead of the merits of that view. The argument erroneously focuses, for example, on the opponents' hypocrisy or bias or motivations, none of which are relevant for assessing the validity of the view.

Avg. 0.25 per section
32%
24%
32%
5%
5%

Avg. difficulty: 2.3

Key tactics

  • The stimulus features another viewpoint distinct from the author's, which the author criticizes
  • The author's criticism does not respond directly to the opposing reasoning
  • The author's reasoning relies on a premise about the other party directly
  • Learn to recognize this common flaw by name when it appears
  • When you catch it, go into "hunt mode" for the answer choices, scanning first for an answer that points to this flaw

Answer choice tips

  • Example answer choices that point to this flaw:
  • rejects an argument on the grounds that those making it have failed to abide by what the argument recommends
  • dismisses the proposed ordinance because of its source rather than because of its content
  • disputes a claim on the basis of a supposed motive for making the claim rather than by assessing the evidence relevant to the claim
  • rejects a claim merely because the person making the claim stands to benefit by doing so

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Logical reasoning question types

Argument part Evaluate Fill in the blank Flaw or descriptive weakening Inference Main conclusion or main point Method of reasoning or descriptive Most strongly supported Must be false Must be true Necessary assumption Parallel flawed method of reasoning Parallel method of reasoning Point at issue: agree Point at issue: disagree Principle PSA - find or complete the application PSA - find the rule Resolve reconcile or explain Strengthen Sufficient assumption Weaken

Reading comprehension question types

Analogy (RC) Application Author’s attitude Author’s perspective Describe approach Describe organization Describe relationship Implied Logical continuation Main point Meaning in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Other’s perspective Principle or generalization Purpose in context (of word, phrase, or idea) Purpose of paragraph Purpose of passage Stated Structure WSE (RC)

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