Which argument could be classified as relying on emotional appeal rather than logical reasoning?

Which argument could be classified as relying on emotional appeal rather than logical reasoning?

• A. Ad Hominem
• B. Appeal to Ignorance
• C. Leading Question
• D. Inconsequent Argument

Answer: (C)

The argument that relies on emotional appeal rather than logical reasoning can be characterized as a leading question. A leading question is structured in a way that suggests a particular answer or influences the respondent’s feelings and emotions towards that answer. This type of questioning often evokes an emotional response rather than encouraging critical thinking or logical evaluation of evidence. For instance, if someone asks, "Wouldn't you agree that helping homeless children is the most important issue we face today?" they are not only leading the respondent towards a specific emotional stance but also framing the discussion in a way that appeals to empathy and compassion rather than presenting an argument grounded in logic or factual analysis. This makes the emotional aspect central to the question, promoting a response based more on feelings than on reasoned argumentation. In contrast, other choices, while they may have their faults, do not primarily serve to elicit an emotional response in the same way.

The argument that relies on emotional appeal rather than logical reasoning can be characterized as a leading question. A leading question is structured in a way that suggests a particular answer or influences the respondent’s feelings and emotions towards that answer. This type of questioning often evokes an emotional response rather than encouraging critical thinking or logical evaluation of evidence.

For instance, if someone asks, "Wouldn't you agree that helping homeless children is the most important issue we face today?" they are not only leading the respondent towards a specific emotional stance but also framing the discussion in a way that appeals to empathy and compassion rather than presenting an argument grounded in logic or factual analysis. This makes the emotional aspect central to the question, promoting a response based more on feelings than on reasoned argumentation.

In contrast, other choices, while they may have their faults, do not primarily serve to elicit an emotional response in the same way.