Module 1: Understanding Arguments: Premises, Conclusions, and Reasoning

These flashcards define key terms and concepts related to arguments, premises, conclusions, and logical reasoning essential for understanding the material covered in the lecture.

Argument

A set of propositions where one proposition (the conclusion) is claimed to be supported by the others (the premises).

Premise

A statement that provides evidence or support for the conclusion in an argument.

Conclusion

The statement in an argument that is purported to be supported by its premises.

Proposition

A complete thought expressed in a statement that conveys a meaning about the relationship between concepts.

Deductive Argument

An argument where the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises, provided that the premises are true.

Inductive Argument

An argument that suggests that if the premises are true, the conclusion is probably true.

Validity

A property of deductive arguments where the premises guarantee the truth of the conclusion.

Soundness

A property of valid arguments where all premises are true.

Cogency

The property of an inductive argument where the premises are true and strongly support the conclusion.

Truth Value

The attribute of a proposition being either true or false.

Indicator Words

Words such as 'therefore,' 'since,' 'thus,' that help identify premises and conclusions in arguments.

Enthymeme

An argument where one or more premises are not explicitly stated.

Rhetorical Question

A question posed for effect, not requiring an answer, often used in arguments.

Counterexample

An example that shows that a given argument is invalid.

Strength (in context of arguments)

The degree to which the premises make the conclusion likely true in an inductive argument.

Indicator Word for Premise

Words such as 'because,' 'given that,' and 'for' that signal the beginning of a premise.

Indicator Word for Conclusion

Words such as 'therefore,' 'thus,' and 'consequently' that indicate the conclusion of an argument.