Which fallacy suggests that a conclusion is true based on the premise that if something bad occurred, there must be a deeper issue?

Study for the Academic Games Propaganda Section C Test. Explore various question types with hints and explanations. Analyze clear examples and counterexamples to understand propaganda techniques effectively. Excel in your exam preparation!

The fallacy referred to here is known as the "sophistical formula." This fallacy occurs when an argument is made based on the assumption that the presence of a negative phenomenon implies the existence of a more significant, underlying problem. It relies on the flawed reasoning that a single negative occurrence can serve as definitive proof of a more complex issue, without providing sufficient evidence for that broader claim.

For instance, if an organization faces a public scandal, one might jump to conclude that this indicates systemic corruption within the organization, without investigating other possible explanations or examining evidence of such a broader issue. This leap in reasoning overlooks the need for exhaustive evidence and critical analysis, focusing instead on superficial conclusions based solely on isolated events.

In contrast, the other answer options do not accurately embody this logical misstep. "No Technique" does not represent any fallacy or method of reasoning. "Degrees and Titles" refers to the fallacy where one overemphasizes credentials to validate an argument, rather than addressing the argument itself. "Numerical Evidence" involves using statistics or numerical data to support an argument, which does not align with the mechanism of assuming a larger issue based solely on a singular negative occurrence.

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