Cambridge International AS & A Level Thinking Skills 9694 Syllabus Overview

A collection of vocabulary flashcards highlighting key flaws and weaknesses in reasoning as outlined in the Cambridge International AS & A Level Thinking Skills syllabus.

Equivocation

The use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth or to mislead.

Conflation

Combining two distinct concepts into one, leading to confusion.

Circular argument

An argument that begins with its conclusion as one of its premises.

Begging the question

Assuming the conclusion within the premises, making the argument invalid.

Invalid deduction

A reasoning process that arrives at a conclusion that does not logically follow from the premises.

Causal flaw

Faulty reasoning that improperly assumes a cause-and-effect relationship.

Rash generalisation

A hasty conclusion made without adequate evidence.

Sweeping generalisation

Applying a general rule to a specific case without considering exceptions.

False dichotomy

Presenting two options as the only possibilities, ignoring alternatives.

Slippery slope argument

Assuming that a relatively small first step will inevitably lead to a chain of related events culminating in significant impact.

Ad hominem

An argument that attacks a person's character instead of addressing the issue.

Tu quoque

A counter-accusation intended to discredit the opponent's argument.

Straw man argument

Misrepresenting an opponent's argument to make it easier to attack.

Post hoc

Assuming that because one event follows another, the first event must be the cause of the second.

Support weakness

When reasoning supports only part of the conclusion drawn from it.

Consistency weakness

When one part of reasoning contradicts or is inconsistent with another part.

Unsupported claim

A statement that is not backed by evidence or sound reasoning.

Analogy

A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.

Appeal

An attempt to persuade based on external factors such as authority or emotion.

Responding to counter

Addressing objections to strengthen an argument.