Question

Consider the following inductive arguments, and evaluate each one for inductive strength. To do this, begin by assuming that the argument's premises are true (even if they are false). Then ask yourself whether the conclusion would therefore probably be true as well. If the answer to this question is yes, then the argument is strong. If the conclusion is not likely to be true based upon the given premises, then the argument is weak.
Argument A:
Whales and dolphins are both mammals. So, because whales cannot breathe underwater but must come up to the ocean's surface to breathe, it is likely that dolphins must also swim to the surface to breathe air.
Argument A is :_______
a. strong
b. weak

Argument B:
Harry has always had an aptitude for history, geography, and social sciences, but he has always struggled with abstract concepts such as mathematics and physics. But Harry must take a college physics course to fulfill a general education requirement for his degree. Based on his academic track record, it is likely that Harry will be one of the top students in his college physics course.

Argument B is :_______
a. strong
b. weak

Argument C:
Out of a bag of 100 marbles, 97 red marbles were drawn in a row at random. Based on this sample, it is probably the case that the remaining 3 marbles are also red.

Argument C is :_______
a. strong
b. weak

Argument D:
The label on the side of a certain soda can indicates that the can was manufactured by Ball Corporation in their plant in Fairfield, California. Based on the information on the can's label, it is unlikely that the can was manufactured by any company other than Ball Corporation.

Argument D is :_______
a. strong
b. weak

Answer 1

Answer:

Argument A: a. strong

Argument B: b. weak

Argument C: a. strong

Argument D: a. Strong

Step-by-step explanation:

Dolphins and whales are mammals. They do not have gills like other fishes for breathing. They have to come to surface of water to breathe. The whales can store oxygen and can stay alive without breathing for more than an hour while dolphins can stay without breathing for few minutes. Harry has struggles with physics and mathematics therefore he cannot be top scorer in this subject based on his past track record.