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De Anza College *

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Communications

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Apr 3, 2024

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Uploaded by AmbassadorArtFrog42

1. What is a rival cause? Give a definition in your own words in ONE clear sentence. If you refer to or paraphrase information from the textbook Asking the Right Questions , you must cite it and include a Works Cited. In ‘Asking the Right Questions,’ Browne and Keeley explain that rival cause refers to a credible alternative explanation capable of interpreting the reasons behind a particular outcome (120). Browne, M. Neil, and Stuart M. Keeley. Asking the Right Questions . 12th ed., Pearson, 2018. 2. In TWO sentences, name at least two ways that statistics may be problematic. If you refer to or paraphrase information learned in the posted video in week 7 or in the textbook Asking the Right Questions , you must cite it and include a Works Cited. In ‘Asking the Right Questions,’ Browne and Keeley show that statistics can be problematic due to the communicator’s decision to omit information, thus deceiving the audience as the statistics are incomplete (138). Additionally, as explained by Mark Liddell in ‘How statistics can be misleading,’ statistics can be misleading through the concept of Simpson's paradox, which shows how data may appear to show different trends depending on how it's grouped (1:50). Browne, M. Neil, and Stuart M. Keeley. Asking the Right Questions . 12th ed., Pearson, 2018. Liddell, Mark. “How Statistics Can Be Misleading.” YouTube , TED- Ed, 14 Jan. 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxYrzzy3cq8. 3. In THREE sentences, state what can result when a person omits information in an argument. If you refer to or paraphrase information from the textbook Asking the Right Questions , you must cite it and include a Works Cited. Omitting information in an argument can lead to confusion and diminish the effectiveness of the argument, as Browne and Keeley emphasize in 'Asking the Right Questions’ (149). It introduces the risk of misinterpretation, where the audience may infer different

intentions or positions than what the speaker or writer intended (Browne 150). Even contradictory information, when excluded, is likely to be perceived as a significant flaw by critical readers, hindering the goal of persuading the audience with a well-founded argument (Browne 151). Browne, M. Neil, and Stuart M. Keeley. Asking the Right Questions . 12th ed., Pearson, 2018. 4. Write a reflective paragraph about how you experience "belief perseverance" as a mental habit in your current ways of thinking. In my current ways of thinking, characterized by an attempt to be open-minded, I often grapple with the challenge of embracing new ideas. Despite my intention to remain receptive, belief perseverance manifests as a mental habit, as I find myself clinging to established beliefs without considering alternative viewpoints. A recent family debate on the ethical obligation to care for elderly members who had mistreated others serves as a clear example. Initially, I staunchly maintained the belief that those who caused harm did not deserve care, dismissing opposing family members' opinions and our cultural inclination to care for the elderly. However, upon reflection a few days later, I realized the need to question my entrenched beliefs. The realization dawned that reciprocating mistreatment might not benefit anyone; perhaps, it is indeed better to choose love over hatred in such situations. As I reflect on the past in the writing of this paragraph, I realize that “belief perseverance” can be a formidable barrier to personal growth and understanding. Consequently, I have realized that thinking critically when confronted with views opposing my beliefs will be key to overcoming such barriers. 5. In what ways do you rely or not on intuition in your life? In what ways do you rely on the tangibility of numbers in your life? Explain your response in one brief paragraph. For me, the concreteness of numbers serves as an assurance of a potential for success in my endeavors. I start with numbers so that

I can rationalize my decision. Whether it's making financial decisions or planning my studies, I lean on the reliability of numbers, seeking a solid foundation to enhance my chances of success; I like my odds, and I like improving them. However, numbers lack emotion and vitality, and sometimes, I find out that life is not measurable. In moments of uncertainty or when navigating unknown territory, I turn to intuition. It becomes a valuable companion, offering a gut feeling that complements my emotional understanding of the circumstances. I rely on intuition when I step out of my comfort zone; it forces me to take the necessary actions to change myself. Numbers are in my mind, and intuition is in my heart; sometimes, I choose my intuition over numbers and other times, I choose numbers. The ultimate decision hinges on a careful consideration of my opportunity cost.

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