After careful study of the relationship between the economy and arson, the conclusion was drawn that when the economy is poor and unemployment is high arson rates go up. The researcher concluded that unemployed people are more likely to commit arson than are those that are employed. What error was just committed?
A) the ecological fallacy
B) reductionism
C) using the wrong time dimension
D) an internal validity threat

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ecological fallacy occurs when conclusions about individual behavior are drawn from aggregate data. In this case, the researcher inferred individual actions (unemployed people committing arson) from broad economic trends, which is a classic example of the ecological fallacy.

After Careful Study of the Relationship Between the Economy and Arson