medium · GMAT Verbal Reasoning
A researcher concludes that 'A' causes 'B' because a study found a strong correlation between the two.
Which of the following most accurately describes the flaw in this reasoning?
- It overlooks the possibility that an unmeasured third factor independently produces both 'A' and 'B'.
- The reasoning uses circular logic by assuming the conclusion is true in order to prove the premises.
- The reasoning relies on an appeal to authority rather than empirical evidence.
- The reasoning assumes that what is true for a small group must be true for the entire population.
- The reasoning is sound because a strong correlation reliably establishes causation.
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