Philosophy 1

Logical Thinking

Applying a general rule to a specific case (e.g., If eligible to vote, must be 18; Joe is eligible; therefore, Joe is 18).

Correct Deductive Reasoning

The conclusion follows necessarily from the premises, making the argument valid.

Affirming the Consequent

A logical fallacy of incorrectly reversing a conditional statement (e.g., If eligible to vote, must be 18; Joe is 18; therefore, Joe is eligible).

Logical Necessity

A statement that must be true because its denial results in a self-contradiction.

Inductive Reasoning

Reasoning based on observations; it provides probability, not absolute certainty.

Rational Thinking

A self-correcting process that gives us the best chance of being correct, though it's not infallible.

Slippery Slope Argument

Arguing that a first step will trigger a chain of negative events, so the first step shouldn't be taken.

Straw Man Argument

Misrepresenting or exaggerating an opponent's position to make it easier to argue against.

All or Nothing Reasoning

Presenting only two extreme choices while ignoring middle-ground possibilities.

Begging the Question

A logical fallacy (circular reasoning) where the argument assumes the conclusion it is supposed to prove.

Cosmological Argument

An argument for God's existence that reasons from the existence of the universe back to a necessary first cause.

Ontological Argument

An argument that God, defined as a perfect being, must exist because existence is a necessary part of perfection.

Argument from Design

The argument that the universe's order and complexity point to an intelligent designer (God).

Problem of Evil

The challenge of explaining why an all-powerful, all-good God allows evil and suffering to exist.

Socrates

A philosopher who championed relentless rational inquiry and independent thinking.

Socratic Wisdom

The idea that true wisdom is knowing that you do not know.

Inconsistent Statements

Two or more statements that cannot logically be true at the same time.

Appearance vs. Reality

The philosophical problem concerning the difference between perception and truth.

Rationalism vs. Empiricism

The debate over whether reason (Rationalism) or sensory experience (Empiricism) is the primary source of knowledge.

Descartes' Quest for Certainty

The philosophical project to find an absolutely certain foundation for knowledge.

Hume's Skepticism

A philosophical position doubting the possibility of certain knowledge, especially about causation and induction.