What is the objective of a Weaken question?

What is the objective of a Weaken question?

• A. To solidify the argument's conclusion
• B. To introduce new evidence
• C. To challenge the argument's validity
• D. To resolve a paradox

Answer: (C)

The objective of a Weaken question is to challenge the argument's validity. In these types of questions, you are typically asked to identify information that undermines or diminishes the support for the conclusion of the argument presented. When you encounter a Weaken question, your goal is to find the best choice that introduces a gap, flaw, or a piece of counterevidence that makes the argument less persuasive or calls its logic into question. This could involve presenting an alternative explanation, questioning the reliability of the evidence used, or highlighting assumptions that are not justified. The other options do not accurately capture the focus of a Weaken question. For instance, solidifying an argument’s conclusion implies reinforcing its strength, which is the opposite of what a Weaken question aims to do. Introducing new evidence might seem relevant, but it could go either way—new evidence can either support or weaken an argument. Resolving a paradox relates to clarifying seemingly contradictory statements, which is a different analytical task than weakening an argument. Thus, challenging the argument's validity is the central focus of Weaken questions.

The objective of a Weaken question is to challenge the argument's validity. In these types of questions, you are typically asked to identify information that undermines or diminishes the support for the conclusion of the argument presented.

When you encounter a Weaken question, your goal is to find the best choice that introduces a gap, flaw, or a piece of counterevidence that makes the argument less persuasive or calls its logic into question. This could involve presenting an alternative explanation, questioning the reliability of the evidence used, or highlighting assumptions that are not justified.

The other options do not accurately capture the focus of a Weaken question. For instance, solidifying an argument’s conclusion implies reinforcing its strength, which is the opposite of what a Weaken question aims to do. Introducing new evidence might seem relevant, but it could go either way—new evidence can either support or weaken an argument. Resolving a paradox relates to clarifying seemingly contradictory statements, which is a different analytical task than weakening an argument. Thus, challenging the argument's validity is the central focus of Weaken questions.