What type of question assumes guilt without evidence?

What type of question assumes guilt without evidence?

• A. Leading Question
• B. Complex Question
• C. Begging the Question
• D. Ad Hominem

Answer: (A)

A leading question is designed to suggest a particular answer or assumption to the respondent. It often contains an implication of guilt or wrongdoing, framing the question in a way that nudges the respondent toward a specific conclusion, even in the absence of evidence. For instance, asking "Why did you steal the money?" presumes that the person in question has committed the act, thus leading to an assumption of guilt without any proof being provided. In contrast, other types of questions do not necessarily assume guilt but may serve different rhetorical purposes. A complex question might bundle multiple issues into a single query, creating confusion rather than assuming guilt. Begging the question typically involves a circular argument where the conclusion is included in the premise, lacking external evidence. An ad hominem attack instead focuses on discrediting an individual rather than addressing the argument itself or their alleged wrongdoing. Thus, the distinguishing feature of a leading question is its inherent suggestion of guilt without due evidence, clearly making it the correct choice for this context.

A leading question is designed to suggest a particular answer or assumption to the respondent. It often contains an implication of guilt or wrongdoing, framing the question in a way that nudges the respondent toward a specific conclusion, even in the absence of evidence. For instance, asking "Why did you steal the money?" presumes that the person in question has committed the act, thus leading to an assumption of guilt without any proof being provided.

In contrast, other types of questions do not necessarily assume guilt but may serve different rhetorical purposes. A complex question might bundle multiple issues into a single query, creating confusion rather than assuming guilt. Begging the question typically involves a circular argument where the conclusion is included in the premise, lacking external evidence. An ad hominem attack instead focuses on discrediting an individual rather than addressing the argument itself or their alleged wrongdoing.

Thus, the distinguishing feature of a leading question is its inherent suggestion of guilt without due evidence, clearly making it the correct choice for this context.