The Argument from Ignorance

Description: The Argument from Ignorance is a logical fallacy that states that a proposition is true because it has not been proven false, or that it is false because it has not been proven true. This quiz will test your understanding of the Argument from Ignorance.
Number of Questions: 5
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Tags: philosophy philosophy of free will the argument from ignorance
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What is the Argument from Ignorance?

  1. A proposition is true because it has not been proven false.

  2. A proposition is false because it has not been proven true.

  3. A proposition is true because it is supported by evidence.

  4. A proposition is false because it is not supported by evidence.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Argument from Ignorance is a logical fallacy that states that a proposition is true because it has not been proven false, or that it is false because it has not been proven true.

What is the problem with the Argument from Ignorance?

  1. It relies on a lack of evidence.

  2. It assumes that the absence of evidence is evidence of absence.

  3. It ignores the possibility that the proposition is false.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Argument from Ignorance relies on a lack of evidence, assumes that the absence of evidence is evidence of absence, and ignores the possibility that the proposition is false.

Which of the following is an example of the Argument from Ignorance?

  1. I believe in God because there is no evidence that he does not exist.

  2. I don't believe in ghosts because there is no evidence that they exist.

  3. I believe in the Loch Ness Monster because there is no evidence that it does not exist.

  4. I don't believe in aliens because there is no evidence that they exist.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The statement "I believe in God because there is no evidence that he does not exist" is an example of the Argument from Ignorance because it relies on the absence of evidence to support the claim that God exists.

What is the best way to respond to the Argument from Ignorance?

  1. Point out that it relies on a lack of evidence.

  2. Show that the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.

  3. Consider the possibility that the proposition is false.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The best way to respond to the Argument from Ignorance is to point out that it relies on a lack of evidence, show that the absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, and consider the possibility that the proposition is false.

Is the Argument from Ignorance ever valid?

  1. Yes, if the proposition is about something that is impossible to prove.

  2. Yes, if the proposition is about something that is very unlikely.

  3. No, never.

  4. Yes, if the proposition is about something that is very important.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Argument from Ignorance is never valid because it relies on a lack of evidence, which is not a reliable way to determine the truth or falsity of a proposition.

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