In One Word, Why Did Most Scientists Resist the Belief

question 181

Multiple Choice

In one word, why did most scientists resist the belief that Clever Hans could do complex mathematics, even before they had a good explanation of what he was actually doing?

• A) parsimony
• B) randomness
• C) statistics
• D) correlation

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Definitions:

Convergent Thinking

A thought process that attempts to focus on the single best solution to a problem.

Relativistic Thinking

Recognition that judgments are often not absolute but made from a certain belief system or cultural background.

Conventional Thinking

A mode of thought based on accepted norms and standards, often contrasted with creative or critical thinking approaches.

Transitivity

A principle in logic and mathematics stating that if a relation holds between a first and a second element, and also between the second and a third, it must necessarily hold between the first and the third.