Philosophy Terms Quiz

Argument

A set of sentences such that one sentence (the conclusion) follows necessarily from the other sentences (the premises)

Premise

A statement regarding what is the case (taken as fact)

Syllogism

A brief form for stating an argument that consists of two statements and a conclusion that must be true if these two statements are true.

Enthymeme

An argument with a suppressed premise (unmentioned but argument is still understandable and generally agreeable without it)

Deductive Argument

The conclusion is no broader than its premises; the conclusion is confined in its premises (Non-Ampliative)

Inductive Argument

The conclusion is broader than premises (Ampliative)

Ampliative

Serving to extend what is already known

Valid Argument

The conclusions follows from the premises

Well-grounded argument

Based on accurate premises

Sound Argument

Are valid and well-grounded

Logical Fallacy

An identifiable category of argument that does not support its conclusion

Circular Argument

The conclusion is identical to the premise

Begging the question

One has to accept the conclusion to accept one of the premises

Ad hominem

Attacking your interlocutor’s character or personal traits in an attempt to undermine their argument

Appeal to Authority

Claiming that because an authority figure thinks something, then it must be the case

Strawman Fallacy

To interpret someone’s position in an unfairly weak way, and so argue agains a position that nobody holds, or is likely to hold

Genetic Fallacy

Judging a claim/argument based on where it comes from

Black or White Fallacy/False dilemma

Considering two alternative states as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist

Middle Ground Fallacy

Presuming that a compromise, or middle ground, between two extremes must be the truth

Anecdotal Fallacy

Idea that we can use an experience or story in place of a sound argument or compelling evidence

Appeal to Nature

Presuming that because something is ‘natural’ it is therefore justified, inevitable, good, or ideal