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 the 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 the absence of evidence as evidence of absence, which is a form of arguing from ignorance. It suggests that just because there have not been any reported negative encounters between ducks and people in other states, that it is evidence that allowing ducks on this specific campus will not have any negative consequences.

The Following Statement Appears in a Brochure Supporting a Law