Concepts of Argumentation and Fallacies

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from argumentation, reasoning, and common fallacies, providing definitions and explanations for review.

Validity

If all premises are true, it’s impossible for the conclusion not to be true.

Soundness

A valid argument that also makes sense in real life.

Modus Ponens

A form of argument where if P is true, then Q must also be true.

Modus Tollens

A form of argument where if Q is false, then P must be false.

Hypothetical Syllogism

If P then Q, and if Q then R, thus if P, then R.

Disjunctive Syllogism

If P or Q is true and P is false, then Q must be true.

Reductio Ad Absurdum

Assuming the negation of a conclusion leads to a contradiction, thus the original conclusion must be true.

Implicit Premises

Premises that are so common they do not need to be stated.

Inductive Strength

Refers to how probable the conclusion of an inductive argument is based on its premises.

Deductive Argument

An argument where if the premises are true, the conclusion must also be true.

Necessity

Condition where X must be true for Y to be true.

Sufficiency

X guarantees Y being true.

Circularity (in definitions)

When the definiens cannot be understood without already knowing the term being defined.

Obscurity (in definitions)

When the definiens does not provide a clear understanding of the term.

Vagueness

When a term does not specify exactly what it is referring to.

Category Mistakes

Attributing a property to something that it cannot logically possess.

Fallacies

Mistakes in reasoning that undermine logical arguments.

Ad Hominem

Attacking an opponent's character rather than their argument.

Ad Ignorantium

Claiming something is true because it hasn’t been proven false.

Begging the Question

An argument that assumes the conclusion is true without providing independent support.

Slippery Slope

Claiming that accepting one position will inevitably lead to an absurd conclusion.

Confirmation Bias

The tendency to search for evidence that confirms one's pre-existing beliefs.

Ego Bias

The belief that one is above average in skill compared to others.