Chapter 2

Question 0

Statement

Answer 0

A sentence that can be viewed as either true or false

Question 1

Argument

Answer 1

A claim (conclusion) defended with reasons (premises)

Question 2

Rhetorical Question

Answer 2

A sentence that is formed as a question but meant to be understood as a statement

Question 3

Ought Imperative

Answer 3

A sentence that is formed as a command but is intended to assert a judgement about what is right or wrong/good or bad

Question 4

The Common Knowledge Test

Answer 4

If the conclusion is common knowledge it is most likely an explanation

Question 5

The Past Event Test

Answer 5

If the conclusion is a past event it is most likely an explanation

Question 6

The Author’s Intent Test

Answer 6

If it is the author’s intent to prove that something is the case rather than why something is the case it is most likely an argument

Question 7

The Principle of Charity Test

Answer 7

Never interpret a passage as a bad argument when the evidence reasonably permits us to interpret it as not an argument at all