Chapter 3 - What Is a Good Argument?

Question 1

Good argument

Answer 1

The premises give good reason to believe that the conclusion is true

Question 2

Plausible claim

Answer 2

A claim that has good reason to believe it is true

Question 3

Implausible/dubious claim

Answer 3

A claim that has no good reason to believe it

Question 4

Begging the question fallacy

Answer 4

One of its premises is no more plausible than the conclusion; circular logic

Question 5

Valid argument

Answer 5

An argument where there is no possible way for its premises to be true and its conclusion false

Question 6

Invalid argument (Strong - weak)

Answer 6

Strong: there is some way for its premises to be true and its conclusion false, but every such possibility is extremely unlikely. Weak: its possible and not unlikely for its premises to be true and conclusion false

Question 7

Three tests for a good argument

Answer 7

1. The argument is valid or strong
2. There is good reason to believe the premises are
   true
3. The premises are more plausible than the
   conclusion