Table of contents | |
Structure of Arguments | |
Central Parts of an Argument | |
Forms of Argument | |
Examples |
An argument is defined as a series of statements known as premises that are said to support a conclusion. In simple language, an argument is a point of view on a particular matter supported by certain evidence.
A premise of an argument is something that is put forth as a truth, but is not proven.
Examples: This is a beautiful car. ;The people of this town are angry.
If you are not satisfied with another person's argument, you can challenge the truth of their premises. The more complex the premise, the more opportunity there is to challenge it.
A conclusion is the statement that is reasoned or inferred from the argument's premises. For example, "We need to get out."
Forms of Argument
The structure of argument can be further divided into three categories namely deductive, inductive, and abductive.
Example Argument 1 : Premise 1: All humans are mortal. Premise 2: Socrates is a human. Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.
Question 1: Identify the conclusion in the argument. a) All humans are mortal. b) Socrates is a human. c) Therefore, Socrates is mortal. d) Socrates is a philosopher.
Answer: c) Therefore, Socrates is mortal.
Solution: The conclusion is the statement that the premises are intended to support. Here, "Therefore, Socrates is mortal" is the conclusion drawn from the premises.
Example Argument 2 : Premise 1: Regular exercise improves mental health. Premise 2: Improved mental health leads to better academic performance. Conclusion: Therefore, regular exercise leads to better academic performance.
Question 2: Which of the following is a premise in the argument? a) Regular exercise leads to better academic performance. b) Regular exercise improves mental health. c) Academic performance is important. d) Better academic performance requires effort.
Answer: b) Regular exercise improves mental health.
Solution: Premises provide the supporting evidence for the conclusion. Here, "Regular exercise improves mental health" is a premise that supports the argument's conclusion.
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1. What are the central parts of an argument? |
2. What is the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning? |
3. Can you provide an example of a deductive argument? |
4. What is an example of inductive reasoning? |
5. How can one identify a strong argument? |
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