Lecture 10 : Standard Form, And Argument Structures Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is the standard form of an argument?
An argument expressed in standard form includes clearly labeled premises (P1, P2, etc.) and a conclusion (C), with a line drawn between them.
What is the first premise in the argument about arriving late to class?
Arriving late to class disturbs other students in the lecture.
What is the second premise in the argument about arriving late to class?
Arriving late to class also distracts the lecturer, and a distracted lecturer is surely not as focused as an undistracted lecturer.
What is the conclusion of the argument about arriving late to class?
One should not arrive late to class.
What should be included in the standard form of an argument in SFV131?
Premises and conclusion clearly labeled next to letters P/P1/P2 etc. and C, with a line drawn between the premises and the conclusion.
True or False: In many arguments, there are no indicator words.
True
What helpful hints can assist in identifying conclusions when indicator words are lacking?
- Break the argument into individual statements
- Place the indicator ‘therefore’ in front of statements
- Determine which statement is most supported by others
What is the first statement in the example argument about capital punishment?
People who kill others do not deserve to live themselves.
What is the second statement in the example argument about capital punishment?
Such people should be treated as they treat others.
What is the third statement in the example argument about capital punishment?
The practise of capital punishment will make villains think twice before they act.
What is the conclusion of the argument about capital punishment?
Capital punishment is fully justified for murderers.
How do premises support the conclusion in an argument?
Independently or Interdependently.
Define ‘independently’ in the context of premises supporting a conclusion.
Each premise individually supports the conclusion, remaining valid even if one premise is removed.
Provide an example of an argument where premises support the conclusion independently.
Active voluntary euthanasia upholds the rights of a terminally ill patient to decide about her own life. Moreover, it prevents pointless suffering and torment. Therefore, active voluntary euthanasia should be legal.
Define ‘interdependently’ in the context of premises supporting a conclusion.
Both premises are necessary for the conclusion to follow; the conclusion becomes invalid if one premise is removed.
Provide an example of an argument where premises support the conclusion interdependently.
All persons have a right to life. Seema is a person. Therefore, Seema has a right to life.
