Quiz 1 Critical Thinking

What is an argument and why is it important to understand arguments

arguments have 1 or more premises and a conclusion. It’s important to understand because it is fundamental for everyday life. You are more likely to achieve the truth if you understand them.

What is a proposition and what are two of its characteristics.

A proposition is an idea that is expressed in an assertion. It is either true or false, and found in either the premises or the conclusion.

What is Dual Systems Theory?

A model of the brain. It theorizes that the brain is split into 2 systems- the intuitive processor and the reasoning processor. System 1 jumps to conclusion and assumes something is correct just because it seems so from the surface. System 2 actually reasons and takes time to break down ideas, etc. can solve complex issues.

Deductive vs. Inductive

Deductive arguments: used to prove conclusion is DEFINITELY true

Inductive: used to prove conclusion is probably true.

Valid argument

IF the premises are true, then its IMPOSSIBLE for the conclusion to be false

Sound Argument

Premises are DEFINITELY true. So, its IMPOSSIBLE for premises to be true and conclusion to be false.

If an argument is valid does that mean the conclusion is true? If an argument has all true premises and a true conclusion then does that mean its valid?

An argument can have all true premises and true conclusion and STILL be false. Although the statements are true, there can still be a possibility that it’s invalid if the premises and conclusion don’t connect.

Logical probability

Possible beyond real world possibilities. It is only impossibility if its coherently impossible to imagine or contradicts itself. Its physically impossible if it goes beyond the laws of physics. Its physiologically impossible if it goes beyond our understanding of anatomy. And, its psychologically impossible if it goes beyond our understanding of the mind.

Belief Bias

an effect of system 1. when we believe an argument is valid just because we believe the conclusion is true.

Motivated Reasoning

evaluating evidence in favor of what we want to believe is true.

How can we limit motivated reasoning

1. understand what motivated reasoning is

2. understand that there is strong evidence that we are easily influenced by this

3. recognize when we want something to be true

   1. carefully evaluate sources and evidence that isn’t influenced by this

Counterexample

Scenarios where the premises are true and the conclusion is false. used to test validity on arguments.