Which of the following methods of knowing is shown by the sentenda, “My doctor says that sadness leads to alcohol abuse”?
a, authority
b.logic
C. common sense
d, science
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: a. Authority
Explanation:
In the sentence “My doctor says that sadness leads to alcohol abuse,” the speaker is relying on information provided by a doctor, who is considered a person with expertise and professional training in health and human behavior. This reliance on an expert to gain knowledge is an example of the method of authority.
What is the method of authority?
The method of authority involves accepting information as true because it comes from someone in a position of recognized authority or expertise. People often accept statements from doctors, teachers, government officials, or religious leaders without independently verifying the information. In many cases, this method is efficient and practical because it allows people to make decisions based on the knowledge and experience of others.
Why not the other choices?
- b. Logic: Logic involves using reasoning and deduction to arrive at conclusions. For example, someone might reason, “If sadness often causes people to drink to feel better, and drinking excessively is alcohol abuse, then sadness can lead to alcohol abuse.” However, that’s not what is happening in the sentence. The statement is accepted because the doctor said it, not because the speaker reasoned it out logically.
- c. Common sense: Common sense is based on shared beliefs or general understandings held by a group of people. While the idea that sadness leads to alcohol abuse might sound like common sense, the sentence clearly indicates that the belief comes from a doctor, not from widely accepted everyday knowledge.
- d. Science: Science involves systematic observation, experimentation, and evidence-based conclusions. The sentence does not mention scientific studies or research findings—it only refers to the opinion of a doctor, not scientific evidence.
In conclusion, since the speaker is basing their knowledge on what their doctor has said, this clearly represents the method of authority.