Critical reasoning – Should there be a ban on product advertising? Statement: “Should there be a complete ban on product advertising?” Arguments to evaluate: I. No. In a competitive age, without effective advertising, products will not sell. II. Yes. Advertising budgets are huge and inflate product costs.
Verbal Reasoning
Statement and Argument
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AOnly argument I is strong
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BOnly argument II is strong
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CEither I or II is strong
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DNeither I nor II is strong
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EBoth I and II are strong
Answer
Correct Answer: Only argument I is strong
Explanation
Introduction / Context:The question asks whether a blanket ban on product advertising is desirable. We must judge which argument is logically strong for policy-making.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Advertising informs, differentiates, and signals quality; costs can be significant.
- Argument I links advertising to market functioning and competition.
- Argument II cites cost inflation as a reason to ban all advertising.
Concept / Approach:A strong argument should advocate a proportionate policy. Market communication is central to competition; if cost is the issue, regulation or caps may be proportionate rather than a total ban.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Argument I: Valid. In competitive markets, advertising conveys information (price, features, availability), enabling consumer choice and efficient matching. A total ban can harm new entrants and innovation. Hence, strong.Argument II: While advertising can add costs, the conclusion (total ban) is disproportionate. Better solutions exist (truth-in-advertising laws, limits on misleading claims, disclosure rules). Hence, weak as framed.Verification / Alternative check:
Economics supports informative and persuasive roles of ads; policy often regulates content/time rather than banning outright.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only II strong / Either / Neither / Both: Misrepresent the relative strength and proportionality of the arguments.Common Pitfalls:
Assuming high cost alone justifies prohibition; ignoring consumer-information value.Final Answer:Only argument I is strong