Reasoning and Arguments

Flashcards covering key concepts in reasoning and arguments, including definitions, examples, and distinctions between types of arguments.

What is an argument in the context of reasoning?

An instance of reasoning where a set of claims is used to establish a further claim.

What are the two main components of an argument?

Premises and conclusion.

What is the role of premises in an argument?

Premises are the claims used to support the truth of the conclusion.

What is a conclusion in an argument?

The claim that the argument is meant to establish.

Can you give an example of an argument?

If there are puddles on the ground, it rained last night. Therefore, it rained last night.

What are two ways an argument can fail?

Premises could be false or premises fail to support the conclusion.

What characterizes a deductively valid argument?

The premises guarantee the truth of the conclusion.

What is the meaning of an inductively strong argument?

The conclusion is likely to be true given the truth of the premises.

What distinguishes a sound argument from a valid argument?

A sound argument is valid with all true premises.

What does Truth Functional Logic examine?

The logical behavior of truth functional connectives like 'and', 'or', 'if…then…'.

What does Quantificational Logic explore?

The logical behavior of quantifiers and predicates.

What is generalizing in inductive reasoning?

Coming to a general conclusion about a group by considering a few observed members.

What is instantiating in inductive reasoning?

Drawing a conclusion about a specific member based on the traits of most members of a group.

Can you give an example of argument from analogy?

Malamutes and huskies are both arctic sled dogs, and since huskies are independent and stubborn, malamutes are likely independent and stubborn too.

What is the premise and conclusion in the example: 'A reduced rate of infection was found only in the group that received the vaccine. Therefore, the reduced rate of infection was caused by the vaccine.'

Premise: A reduced rate of infection was found only in the group that received the vaccine. Conclusion: The reduced rate of infection was caused by the vaccine.