The National Questioner (known for its sensationalist journalism) reports that a young boy in Oklahoma has spoken with Martians. Thus, we must draw the conclusion that Martians do indeed exist.
A) Inductive, strong.
B) Inductive, weak.
C) Deductive, valid.
D) Inductive, cogent.
E) Deductive, weak.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The argument is based on a single, unsupported claim from a questionable source, so the inductive reasoning is weak. Additionally, even if we granted the truth of the claim, there is no logical connection between a single conversation with a Martian and the conclusion that Martians exist in general.

The National Questioner (Known for Its Sensationalist Journalism) Reports That