Question

A researcher wished to gauge public opinion on gun control. He randomly selected 1000 people from amongst all registered voters and asked them the following question: "Do you believe that gun control laws which restrict the ability of Americans to protect their families should be eliminated?". Identify the abuse of statistics.

A) nonresponse

B) loaded question

C) self interest

D) reported results

Answer 1

The answer is
B. Loaded question

Answer 2

B) Loaded question is the answer. A loaded question is a complex question that contains unjustified assumptions.

Explanation:

The abuse of statistics refers to the misuse of numerical data sometimes due to error or sometimes intentionally to manipulate people's opinions. This abuse can cause a biased opinion if the person is not careful to notice the error or manipulation.

Here, we can see that the researcher has clearly stated, that gun control law prevents the ability of families to protect themselves. This can give biased opinions. Rather it should have been simply asked if the people wanted to eliminate such law.