Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: if neither Conclusion I nor II follows
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The premises create class relations: (1) good wrangler ⊆ wise; (2) good wrangler ⊆ talkative and boring. We must decide whether the entire class “wise” inherits “boring,” or whether all wise people are good wranglers.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
This is a subset logic problem. From A ⊆ B and A ⊆ C, we cannot conclude B ⊆ C or C ⊆ B. Knowing attributes of a subset (good wranglers) tells us nothing about the whole superset (all wise people).
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) I: “All wise persons are boring.” We only know “good wranglers are boring” and that “good wranglers are wise.” Non-wrangler wise persons may or may not be boring → I does not follow.2) II: “All wise persons are good wranglers.” We only have the converse (good wrangler ⇒ wise), not the biconditional. Hence II does not follow.
Verification / Alternative check:
If the premise had said “a man is a good wrangler iff he is wise,” then II could follow; it does not.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any option assuming superset properties from subset properties commits the converse accident fallacy.
Common Pitfalls:
Illicit conversion of subset statements; assuming attributes of a part must characterize the whole.
Final Answer:
if neither Conclusion I nor II follows
Discussion & Comments