Hypothetical question

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A hypothetical question is one that is answered only in terms of validity, not soundness. Thus the question is designed to make a number of assumptions, and be answered as if those assumption are true.

For example, a person may ask: Would you eat the moon, if it were made of barbecue spare ribs? This question presupposes that the moon is made of barbecue spare ribs, and asks only whether or not you would eat it. An objection based upon the composition of the moon is not an appropriate answer for the question, as that is given to be decided. Only answers such as yes, no or depends on what kind of sauce is available would be valid answers for this hypothetical question.

In law, a hypothetical question is one that comprises an imaginary situation incorporating facts about the case. A witness can then be asked to answer or to give an opinion on the question and hypothetical situation.^[1]