Chapter 2

Question 1

The best explanations are able to (1) (2)

Answer 1

1- Explain all the available evidence in

2- as simple way as possible

Question 2

Reconstructing

Answer 2

An argument identifying all its different parts, then spelling these out clearly in a standard form that allows us to see exactly how they work

Question 3

Premise

Answer 3

A claim presented by an argument in support of its conclusion

Question 4

Conclusion

Answer 4

the final proposition in any argument, supported by its premises

Question 5

Extraneous Material

Answer 5

Information that is not relevant to the argument and should be left out as we carefully clarify each premise and conclusion by rewriting them

Question 6

Assumption

Answer 6

Something relevant to an argument that has been taken for granted by the person presenting it, rather than spelled out

Question 7

Whats the point of reconstructing an argument?

4 points

Answer 7

1- Ensure understanding
2- Reveals Flaws or gaps in the reasoning
3- Forces us to identify they key assumptions that may not have been made explicit
4- You will become more confident at making convincing, reasonable arguments for yourself

Question 8

Extended argument

Answer 8

The assumption that someone else is truthful and reasonable, and that their argument deserves stating in its strongest form

Question 9

Reconstructing arguments

5 points

Answer 9

1- Apply the principle of charity
2- Identify the final conclusion
3- Identify the explicit premises
4- Identify any implicit premises
5- Distinguish between linked and independent premises

Question 10

Prejudice

Answer 10

Holding a belief without consideration of the evidence for or against it; deciding in advance of hearing an argument what you believe to be the case

Question 11

Straw man

Answer 11

An absurd simplification of someone else’s position that is obviously wrong or stupid, and that is only expressed so that it can easily be defeated

Question 12

Principle of charity

Answer 12

The assumption that someone else is truthful and reasonable, and that their argument deserves stating in its strongest form

Question 13

Explicit premises

Answer 13

All the claims that someone has set out in support of their conclusion

Question 14

Implicit premises

Answer 14

Are not spelled out by the person stating an argument, but are assumed as part of their reasoning and need to be included in reconstruction

Question 15

Linked premises

Answer 15

Supports a conclusion when taken together, but not individually

Question 16

Independant premises

Answer 16

Supports a conclusion individually and don’t rely upon each other ( another premise )

Question 17

Standard form

Answer 17

Means rewriting an argument so that :

• The conclusion is set out clearly at the bottom
• The reasoning leading to the conclusion is set out clearly above it in the form of numbered premises.