Chapter 3: Key Terms

Question 1

Affirming the antecedent/modus ponens

Answer 1

A valid argument form:

If P, then Q.
P.
Therefore, Q.

Question 2

Affirming the consequent

Answer 2

An invalid argument form:

If P, then Q.
Q.
Therefore, P.

Question 3

Antecedent

Answer 3

The first part of a conditional statement (if p, then q), the component that begins with the word ‘if’.

Question 4

Consequent

Answer 4

The part of a conditional statement that is introduced by the word ‘then’.

Question 5

Cogent argument

Answer 5

A strong inductive argument with all true premises

Question 6

Deductive argument

Answer 6

An argument intended to provide logically inclusive support for its conclusion.

Question 7

Denying the antecedent

Answer 7

An invalid argument form

If p, then q.
No P.
Therefore, not Q.

Question 8

Denying the consequent/modus tollens

Answer 8

A valid argument form.

If p, then q.
Not q.
Therefore, not p.

Question 9

Disjunctive syllogism

Answer 9

A valid argument form.

Either P or Q.
Not P.
Therefore, Q.

(in the se cone premise of the syllogism, either disjunct can be denied.)

Question 10

Hypothetical syllogism

Answer 10

A valid argument form.

If P, then Q.
If Q, then R.
Therefore if P, then R.

Question 11

Invalid argument

Answer 11

A deductive argument that fails to provide conclusive support for its conclusion.

Question 12

Sound argument

Answer 12

A deductively valid argument that has true premises.

Question 13

Strong argument

Answer 13

An inductive argument that succeeds in providing probable - but no conclusive - support for its conclusion.

Question 14

Valid argument

Answer 14

A deductive argument that succeeds in providing conclusive support for its conclusion.

Question 15

Weak argument

Answer 15

An inductive argument that fails to provide strong support for its conclusion.