Chapter 2 - Methodology

Question 1

What are 4 step approach for all CR questions?

Answer 1

Step 1: Identify the question Step 2: Deconstruct the argument Step 3: State the goal Step 4: Work from the wrong to right.

Question 2

What are the three broad categories of CR quesions in Step 1: Identify the question?

Answer 2

1) The Structure based family - based on the argument structure discussed in ch 1.
2) The Assumption based family - something that the author does not state in the argument; assumption is unstated. However the author must believe to be true in order to draw the given conclusion.
3) The Evidence based family - questions lack conclusions; they consist entirely of premises. Find something that must be true or something that eliminates a discrepany.

Question 3

What are some ways to deconstruct the argument in Step 2 of all CR questions?

Answer 3

• Make notes that clearly mark a conclusion (if there is one)
• Demonstrate the “flow” of info ( how one piece of info relates to the next)
• indicate contrasts or changes of direction using arrows, abbr etc ( ex “plus” sign indicates a premise: something the author is using to support the conclusion. “minus” sign indicates a counterpremse: something that does not support the conclusion)