Question

A researcher at a local university recently came out with a study saying excessive screen time is actually good for students. The study comes to a series of unbelievable conclusions, including that screens help students connect with other people. How can that be true? Plenty of evidence shows that screen time ruins students' sleep time and causes behavioral issues in school. This one foolish researcher put out a contradictory study, but it's plain wrong.

Which statement best explains how the author uses faulty reasoning to serve a purpose?

The author inserts loaded language to make the argument more persuasive.
The author uses slippery slope arguments to warn about screen use.
The author inserts bias to prove that screen time negatively impacts all aspects of life.
The author uses ad hominem to persuade the reader that the study is wrong.

Answer 1

The author uses ad hominem to persuade the reader that the study is wrong.

Explanation: instead of addressing the study’s methods or evidence, the author attacks the researcher (“one foolish researcher”) and dismisses the findings as “plain wrong,” which targets the person rather than refuting the argument.