The following statement appears in a brochure supporting a law to allow ducks on a lake on a college campus: "In the other states that have allowed ducks on campus, we know of no adverse encounters between ducks and people to date." What type of reasoning does that passage display?
A) arguing from ignorance
B) arguing from authority
C) post hoc reasoning
D) circular argument

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement is using arguing from ignorance, as it is suggesting that because there have been no known adverse encounters between ducks and people on other campuses, it is therefore safe to allow ducks on this campus. However, the lack of evidence does not necessarily mean that there is no possibility of adverse encounters occurring.

The Following Statement Appears in a Brochure Supporting a Law