Ch 1.4: Validity, Truth, Soundness, Strength, Cogency

Question 1

What is a valid deductive argument?

Answer 1

A valid deductive argument is an argument in which it is impossible for the conclusion to be false given that the premises are true

Question 2

What is an invalid deductive argument?

Answer 2

1. An invalid deductive argument is a deductive argument in which it IS possible for the conclusion to be false given that the premises are true.
2. The conclusion does not follow with strict necessity from the premises, even though it is claimed to

Question 3

What is a sound argument?

Answer 3

A sound argument is a deductive argument that is VALID and has ALL TRUE PREMISES. Both these criteria must be met for an argument to be sound.

Question 4

What is an unsound argument?

Answer 4

An unsound argument is a deductive argument that is invalid, has one or more false premises, or both.

Question 5

What is a strong argument?

Answer 5

A strong argument is an inductive argument in which it is improbable that the conclusion be false given that the premises are true.

Question 6

What is a weak argument?

Answer 6

A weak argument is an inductive argument in which the conclusion does not follow probably from the premises, even though it is claimed to.

Question 7

What is a cogent argument?

Answer 7

A cogent argument is an inductive argument that is STRONG and has ALL TRUE PREMISES. Also, the premises must be true in the sense of meeting the TOTAL EVIDENCE REQUIREMENT.

Question 8

What is an uncogent argument?

Answer 8

An uncogent argument is an inductive argument that is weak, has one or more false premises, fails to meet the total evidence requirement, or any combination of these.