What logical issue can arise from a slippery slope argument?

Prepare for your Public Debate Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

A slippery slope argument is characterized by the assumption that a relatively small first step or action will lead to a chain of related events culminating in a significant and often negative outcome. This type of argument typically lacks a strong causal connection between the initial event and the subsequent consequences, making it a logical issue.

In this context, option C accurately captures the essence of a slippery slope argument by explaining that it suggests one event will lead to a series of negative outcomes. This implies a chain reaction with no consideration of the actual likelihood or validity of each subsequent step. Slippery slope arguments often oversimplify complex issues by implying that once a specific action is taken, it will unavoidably result in dire consequences, disregarding potential counter-arguments or mitigating factors.

The other options, while they touch on different logical issues that can arise in arguments, do not specifically address the core characteristic of why slippery slope reasoning can be problematic. For instance, lacking clear premises might describe some arguments but does not capture the sequential nature of the slippery slope. Similarly, positing a single outcome or affirming every conceivable outcome does not accurately reflect the way slippery slope arguments function, which is to suggest a specific pathway of increasingly negative consequences rather than exploring a broad range of possibilities.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy