Deductive Arguments and Argument Patterns

Flashcards reviewing deductive argument definitions and valid/invalid argument patterns.

Valid Argument

A deductive argument structured such that if its premises are true, its conclusion must be true.

Invalid Argument

A deductive argument that fails to provide conclusive support for its conclusion.

Sound Argument

A deductively valid argument with true premises.

Truth-Preserving Argument

A characteristic of deductively valid arguments where, if the premises are true, the conclusion is guaranteed to be true.

Affirming the Antecedent

A valid argument pattern formatted as: If $p$, then $q$. $p$. Therefore, $q$.

Denying the Consequent

A valid argument pattern formatted as: If $p$, then $q$. Not $q$. Therefore, not $p$.

Hypothetical Syllogism

A valid argument pattern formatted as: If $p$, then $q$. If $q$, then $r$. Therefore, if $p$, then $r$.

Disjunctive Syllogism

A valid argument pattern formatted as: Either $p$ or $q$. Not $p$. Therefore, $q$.

Denying the Antecedent (Invalid)

An invalid argument pattern formatted as: If $p$, then $q$. Not $p$. Therefore, not $q$.

Affirming the Consequent (Invalid)

An invalid argument pattern formatted as: If $p$, then $q$. $q$. Therefore, $p$.