Question

what is an example of weak evidence?

citing something that your friends say
citing statistics from an encyclopedia
citing the opinion of an expert
citing historical reasons for an event

Explanation:

Define strong vs. weak evidence

Strong evidence relies on objective, verifiable, and authoritative sources such as statistics, expert opinions, and historical facts. Weak evidence relies on subjective, unverified, or biased sources, such as hearsay or casual conversations with friends.

Evaluate the given options

• "citing something that your friends say": Anecdotal, unverified, and lacks authority or objectivity (weak evidence).
• "citing statistics from an encyclopedia": Objective, verifiable, and highly reliable (strong evidence).
• "citing the opinion of an expert": Authoritative and credible (strong evidence).
• "citing historical reasons for an event": Fact-based and verifiable (strong evidence).

Identify the correct choice

The first option represents weak evidence because casual statements from friends lack credibility, verification, and authority in an academic or formal argument.

Answer:

• (A) citing something that your friends say (Correct answer)
• (B) citing statistics from an encyclopedia
• (C) citing the opinion of an expert
• (D) citing historical reasons for an event