3/9 3. Argument Structure Free Online FlashCards

What is an argument in logic?

An argument is a group of propositions in which one or more propositions are offered as reasons for accepting another proposition.

What is a premise?

A premise is a proposition used as evidence, a reason, or a justification for another proposition.

What is a conclusion?

A conclusion is the proposition that an arguer wants the audience to accept on the basis of the premises.

What is an inference?

An inference is the movement from premises to a conclusion.

What are linked premises?

Linked premises work together to support a conclusion; neither premise alone establishes it.

What is an intermediate conclusion?

An intermediate conclusion is supported by earlier premises and then used as a premise for a later conclusion.

Why are indicator words not infallible?

Indicator words are useful clues, but context determines whether a proposition is actually a premise or conclusion.

What is argument reconstruction?

Reconstruction rewrites an argument so its premises and conclusion are clear while preserving the arguer’s intended reasoning.

What is an unstated premise?

An unstated premise is a missing assumption that an argument depends on to connect its stated reasons to its conclusion.

When is a deductive argument valid?

A deductive argument is valid when it is impossible for all its premises to be true and its conclusion false at the same time.

What makes an argument sound?

A sound argument is valid and has true premises.

Why is “If alarm, light; light; therefore alarm” invalid?

The form is invalid because the light could flash for a reason other than the alarm being set.