Match each causal argument on the left to the formal description of its causal reasoning structure or fallacy profile on the right.
- Observational studies show that individuals who frequently consume artificial sweeteners experience higher rates of metabolic syndrome. It is therefore evident that metabolic syndrome is induced by the consumption of these sweeteners.Derives a causal conclusion from an observed correlation, failing to consider that the actual causal relationship may flow in the opposite direction.
- The recent spike in the inflation rate cannot be attributed to increased consumer spending, as retail sales have plummeted. Furthermore, supply chain disruptions have fully resolved. Consequently, the aggressive expansion of the money supply must be driving the inflation.Establishes a specific causal agent by systematically eliminating all other plausible alternative explanations for an observed phenomenon.
- Paleontologists have noted that fossil beds containing the remains of species X almost always contain the remains of species Y. Clearly, the presence of species X created an ecological environment that allowed species Y to thrive.Infers a direct causal connection between two correlated phenomena, overlooking the possibility that both are independent effects of a common underlying cause.
- A reduction in corporate tax rates inevitably leads to increased capital investment. This surge in investment subsequently creates a higher demand for skilled labor, driving up average wages. Hence, corporate tax cuts are ultimately responsible for rising wages.Demonstrates that a primary event brings about a final outcome by establishing a valid sequence of intermediate causal links.
Answer
The artificial sweetener argument matches the reverse causation flaw. The inflation argument matches the alternative elimination structure. The fossil bed argument matches the common cause flaw. The tax cut argument matches the valid intermediate causal chain.
Each argument maps perfectly to a classic LSAT causal structure. The sweetener argument fails to see that illness drives the diet choice (reverse causation). The inflation argument uses the process of elimination. The fossil argument ignores that a shared habitat (third factor) brought the species together. The tax argument successfully builds a multi-step causal chain.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Parallel Causal Reasoning Profiles