Which criterion best determines if a conclusion follows from the data?

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Multiple Choice

Which criterion best determines if a conclusion follows from the data?

The main idea here is that a conclusion only truly follows from data if the data provide logical support for it. When the data clearly justify the conclusion, the inference is warranted because it can be deduced or reasonably inferred from what has been observed. This is why the option that says the data logically support the conclusion is the best choice. Persuasion or popularity doesn’t show truth—what people think or feel isn’t the same as what the evidence proves. Even if the data are extensive, if they aren’t directly related to the conclusion, they don’t establish that the conclusion follows. And vivid anecdotes, while memorable, are not reliable evidence to support a broad conclusion because they’re individual cases and can mislead about the general pattern.

The main idea here is that a conclusion only truly follows from data if the data provide logical support for it. When the data clearly justify the conclusion, the inference is warranted because it can be deduced or reasonably inferred from what has been observed.

This is why the option that says the data logically support the conclusion is the best choice. Persuasion or popularity doesn’t show truth—what people think or feel isn’t the same as what the evidence proves. Even if the data are extensive, if they aren’t directly related to the conclusion, they don’t establish that the conclusion follows. And vivid anecdotes, while memorable, are not reliable evidence to support a broad conclusion because they’re individual cases and can mislead about the general pattern.

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