Question Details

Molecules are in random motion. Qutub Minar is composed of Molecules. Therefore, Qutub Minar is in constant random motion. Identify the fallacy committed in the above statement.

Options

A

Equivocation

B

Slippery slope

C

Hasty generalization

D

Fallacy of composition

Show Answer

Correct Answer :

Option D

Fallacy of composition

Solution :

The correct option is Fallacy of composition.

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Understanding the Fallacy of Composition:
The fallacy of composition arises when one infers that something is true of the whole from the fact that it is true of some part of the whole (or even every proper part of the whole). In logical terms, it wrongly assumes that what is true of the individual parts or members of a structure/group must also be true of the structure or group as a collective unit.

2. Analyzing the Given Statement:
- Premise 1: "Molecules are in random motion." (This is a true statement about the individual parts/microscopic components).
- Premise 2: "Qutub Minar is composed of Molecules." (This establishes that molecules are the building blocks/parts of the Qutub Minar).
- Conclusion: "Therefore, Qutub Minar is in constant random motion." (This makes an assertion about the whole structure based on its parts).

3. Identifying the Logical Error:
While the individual molecules that make up the Qutub Minar are indeed in constant random thermal motion at the microscopic level, the Qutub Minar as a macroscopic whole remains stationary. The properties of the constituent parts (individual molecules moving randomly) cannot be directly attributed to the macroscopic whole (the entire monument). Therefore, transferring the property of the parts to the whole is a classic example of the fallacy of composition.

4. Why other options are incorrect:
- Equivocation: This fallacy occurs when a key term or phrase in an argument is used in an ambiguous way, with one meaning in one portion of the argument and another meaning in another portion. There is no shift in the meaning of words here.
- Slippery slope: This fallacy suggests that a relatively small first step leads to a chain of related events culminating in some significant (usually negative) effect. No such chain of events is suggested here.
- Hasty generalization: This fallacy occurs when a claim is made about a large group based on a sample size that is too small. This is not the case here, as the argument relates parts to a whole rather than a sample to a population.

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