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Structure of Arguments

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. 

Structure of Arguments | Logical Reasoning for UGC NET

Central Parts of an Argument 

Premise

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.

Structure of Arguments | Logical Reasoning for UGC NET

Conclusion

A conclusion is the statement that is reasoned or inferred from the argument's premises. For example, "We need to get out."

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What is the purpose of a premise in an argument?
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  • Conclusions are derived from premises.
  • They represent the logical endpoint of an argument.
  • Conclusions are essential for decision-making and problem-solving.

Forms of Argument

The structure of argument can be further divided into three categories namely deductive, inductive, and abductive.

Structure of Arguments | Logical Reasoning for UGC NET

Deductive Argument

  • A deductive argument is a way of reasoning where the conclusion is directly based on the premises.
  • The goal is to provide clear proof for the conclusion.
  • If the premises are true, then the conclusion must also be true.
  • Deductive arguments are known for their validity, meaning the conclusion logically follows from the premises.
  • Example:
    • Premise 1: All mammals are warm-blooded animals.
    • Premise 2: A whale is a mammal.
    • Conclusion: Therefore, a whale is a warm-blooded animal.
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Inductive Argument

  • An inductive argument is a type of reasoning where the conclusion is based on patterns, trends, or evidence observed.
  • The aim is to suggest a likely truth for the conclusion.
  • Inductive reasoning does not guarantee certainty; it relies on the strength of the evidence.
  • Example:
    • Premise 1: Every cat I have seen has fur.
    • Conclusion: Therefore, all cats have fur.
  • This conclusion is based on personal observations but does not ensure that every cat has fur, as there could be exceptions.

Abductive Argument

  • Abductive reasoning is about finding the best explanation for a set of observations or evidence.
  • The goal is to identify the most likely hypothesis that explains the facts.
  • This reasoning often uses the hypothetico-deductive method, proposing a hypothesis and making predictions based on it.
  • These predictions are then tested to see if the hypothesis is valid.
  • Example:
    • Observation: The ground is wet.
    • Hypothesis: It rained last night.
    • Prediction: If it rained last night, there should be puddles on the streets.
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Examples

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.

The document Structure of Arguments | Logical Reasoning for UGC NET is a part of the UGC NET Course Logical Reasoning for UGC NET.
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FAQs on Structure of Arguments - Logical Reasoning for UGC NET

1. What are the central parts of an argument?
Ans.The central parts of an argument typically include a claim, evidence, and a warrant. The claim is the main point or assertion being made, the evidence supports the claim with factual information or data, and the warrant explains how the evidence supports the claim.
2. What is the difference between deductive and inductive reasoning?
Ans.Deductive reasoning starts with a general statement or hypothesis and examines the possibilities to reach a specific, logical conclusion. In contrast, inductive reasoning begins with specific observations and measures to develop broader generalizations and theories.
3. Can you provide an example of a deductive argument?
Ans.An example of a deductive argument is: "All humans are mortal. Socrates is a human. Therefore, Socrates is mortal." This argument follows a logical structure where the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises.
4. What is an example of inductive reasoning?
Ans.An example of inductive reasoning is: "The sun has risen in the east every day that I can remember. Therefore, the sun will rise in the east tomorrow." This conclusion is based on repeated observations but does not guarantee certainty.
5. How can one identify a strong argument?
Ans.A strong argument can be identified by evaluating its structure, the quality of the evidence provided, the relevance of the claims, and whether it addresses counterarguments. A strong argument is logically coherent and supported by credible evidence.
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