Question

question 1 of 10
which scenario is best illustrates the concept of illusory correlation?

a. a person argues that a scientific study is invalid because it bases its conclusions around very weak correlations.

b. a person claims that cigarettes do not cause health problems because some smokers live long and healthy lives.

c. a person suggests that her religious beliefs must be correct because many convicted criminals hold opposing beliefs.

d. a person believes cell phones cause cancer despite scientific studies finding no correlation between them.

Explanation:

Illusory correlation is the perception of a relationship between two variables when no such relationship exists (or is much weaker than perceived). Option D shows a person believing a correlation (cell phones - cancer) that scientific studies say doesn't exist, matching illusory correlation. Option A is about criticizing weak correlations, not perceiving a false one. Option B is dismissing a real correlation with anecdotes. Option C links religious beliefs to criminality in a flawed way but not a false variable - variable correlation.

Answer:

D. A person believes cell phones cause cancer despite scientific studies finding no correlation between them.