Terms of Argument Quiz Study Slides

Fallacy

A failure in reasoning.

Argument

A reason or set of reasons given with the purpose of persuading the listener.

Induction

Moves from a particular case (or cases) to make generalizations; also known as 'argument from example.'

Deduction

Applies a general or universal principle to a specific case; involves a major premise, a minor premise, and a conclusion.

Syllogism

A classical form of deduction consisting of a major premise, a minor premise, and a conclusion.

Valid

An argument whose structure is correct.

Sound

An argument that is both valid and has true premises.

Slothful Induction

Occurs when a person fails to make an inductive generalization despite overwhelming evidence that calls for it.

Hasty Generalization

Jumping to a conclusion without collecting appropriate evidence.

Argument ad populum

An argument that appeals to popular opinion, also known as the Bandwagon fallacy.

Argument ad hominem

Distracting from the argument by attacking the character or circumstances of the person making the argument.

Argument ad consequentium

Argues for acceptance based on the potential consequences of believing or not believing something.

False Dilemma

Presents an argument as having only two options when other possibilities exist.

Strawperson argument

Misrepresenting or distorting a counterargument to respond to it more easily.

Begging the Question

A circular argument that includes the conclusion in its premise.

Cum hoc ergo propter hoc

Mistaking correlation or sequence for causation.