1.D: Analyzing Arguments

Inductive Argument

an argument where specific premises lead to a generalized conclusion

Deductive Argument

an argument where generalized premises lead to a specific conclusion

Strong Inductive Argument

an inductive argument that makes a compelling case for its conclusion (its premises support it well)

Weak Inductive Argument

an inductive argument whose conclusion is not well supported by its premises

Conditional Argument

“if p, then q”; has four basic types

Conditional Argument Type: Affirming the Hypothesis

• when the “if” part of the argument is true, the “then” part must be true (as p being true guarantees q)

• P is inside of q, and the x is placed inside of p

• Strong argument

Conditional Argument Type: Affirming the Conclusion

• theoretically, if the “then” part is true, we can conclude the “if” part must be true (not guaranteed)

• P is inside of q, and the q is placed on the edge of p (not quite inside)

• Weak argument

Conditional Argument Type: Denying the Hypothesis

• if the “if” part of the argument is not true, we cannot conclude the “then” part must be true

• P is inside of q, and the q is placed on the edge of p (not quite inside)

• Weak argument

Conditional Argument Type: Denying the Conclusion

• if the “then” part is not true, the “if” part must not be true

• P is inside of q, and the x is placed outside of q

• Strong argument

Counterexample

opposes or contradicts an idea or theory; used to prove said theory or idea true or false.