Question

comparing arguments from diverse perspectives
quiz complete
read the passage.
congress needs to pass legislation to protect the endangered species—and all organisms—currently threatened by climate change. all americans realize that these creatures deserve the chance to survive without threats outside of their control. if congress fails to address this today, then we all lose.
which fallacies appear in this passage? select three options.
an appeal to emotion is used to make congress feel guilty if they do not support the legislation.
a false dilemma is used to claim that legislation is the only way to protect the environment.
an ad hominem is used to attack representatives for being distracted when hearing evidence.
a bandwagon appeal is used to suggest that every american wants to help endangered species.
a false dilemma is used to introduce the idea that the legislation will save us all.

Explanation:

• Appeal to emotion: The passage says "All Americans realize that these creatures deserve the chance to survive without threats outside of their control. If Congress fails to address this today, then we all lose." This is trying to evoke an emotional response (guilt, a sense of loss) in Congress to support the legislation.
• Bandwagon appeal: "All Americans realize..." implies that a large group (all Americans) has a certain view (that creatures deserve to survive), suggesting that Congress should follow this popular (implied) view.
• False dilemma (second instance): "If Congress fails to address this today, then we all lose" creates a false choice. It implies that either Congress passes the legislation (and we are saved) or Congress doesn't and "we all lose", ignoring other possible outcomes or solutions.

Answer:

• An appeal to emotion is used to make Congress feel guilty if they do not support the legislation.
• A bandwagon appeal is used to suggest that every American wants to help endangered species.
• A false dilemma is used to introduce the idea that the legislation will save us all.