Question

Ann is convinced that corporal punishment (e.g., spanking) is a good idea because she knows a child whose behaviour improved because of it. Whether or not you agree with her, Ann is using a flawed argument. Which type of evidence is she using?

1) objective
2) generalizable
3) authority-based
4) anecdotal

Answer 1

Ann is using anecdotal evidence to support her view on corporal punishment, which is not regarded as scientifically rigorous or generalizable to broader populations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ann is using anecdotal evidence to argue that corporal punishment is a good idea. Anecdotal evidence is based on personal stories or isolated examples, rather than on scientifically gathered, objective, generalizable data. In the field of Social Studies, and more specifically when discussing corporal punishment, it’s important to rely on a broader range of evidence that includes statistical data, peer-reviewed studies, and expert analysis to make a well-supported argument. Ann’s assertion relies on a single case she is aware of, and while her experience with the child whose behavior improved might be true, it does not necessarily reflect a general pattern or outcome that can be applied widely. Relying solely on anecdotal evidence can lead to misconceptions, as individual experiences can vary widely and may be influenced by numerous factors, including cultural norms and educational background.