Answer :
Final answer:
The statement about smoking is fallacious as it relies on anecdotal evidence rather than established scientific consensus. Audiences familiar with health research would find it non-persuasive, while those favoring personal stories might consider it convincing. Overall, the argument's reliance on a personal story does not negate the proven risks associated with smoking.
Explanation:
Analysis of the Statement
The statement, "Smoking does not cause cancer because my grandfather smoked two packs per day for fifty years and died in his sleep at age ninety," is a classic example of a fallacious argument.
a. Identifying the Fallacy
This argument commits the anecdotal fallacy, which occurs when one uses personal experience or an isolated example instead of valid reasoning or compelling evidence. Just because one individual lived a long life despite smoking does not disprove the extensive scientific research that illustrates the connection between smoking and various types of cancer. Additionally, the argument overlooks the larger statistical reality: many smokers do develop cancer, and smoking is a well-established risk factor.
b. The Audience That Might Find It Fallacious
Audience members who are familiar with medical research, public health guidelines, or who have a good understanding of statistical evidence regarding smoking may find this statement particularly fallacious. These individuals are likely to recognize that personal anecdotes do not constitute adequate proof against a substantial body of scientific evidence.
c. The Audience That Might Consider It Persuasive
Conversely, individuals who prioritize personal stories over scientific data, such as those with strong emotional ties to a healthy smoker (like family members), might find this statement persuasive. They may relate to the anecdote regarding the grandfather and use it to discount the dangers of smoking based on their personal beliefs or experiences.
In summary, the argument fails because it relies on anecdotal evidence rather than engaging with the comprehensive data that proves smoking is a significant risk factor for cancer.
Learn more about fallacy in smoking argument here:
https://brainly.com/question/38585888
