Lectures 3 Flashcards
What is the study of the rules of reasoning called?
Logic
Logic is fundamental for understanding arguments and reasoning.
What is an argument made up of?
Two or more statements or propositions including the premises and the conclusion
An argument consists of premises that support a conclusion.
What can Inductive Reasoning ensure about its conclusions?
They are probable
Inductive reasoning assesses the strength of arguments based on evidence.
How are inductive arguments judged?
Weak or strong
The evaluation depends on the quality of evidence and reasoning.
What are the four most common inductive arguments?
- Generalizations
- Predictions
- Causal inferences
- Analogies
Each type serves a different purpose in reasoning.
What must evidence be in inductive reasoning?
Complete, reliable, representative, and take into account negative instances and alternative theories
This ensures the validity of inductive conclusions.
What are the two types of causation?
- Necessary
- Sufficient
Understanding these types helps clarify relationships between causes and effects.
What does Necessary causation imply?
If this cause is not present, an effect cannot occur
This type of causation is essential for the occurrence of an effect.
What does Sufficient causation imply?
If this cause is present, an effect must occur
This indicates a direct relationship between the cause and effect.
What does Deductive Reasoning ensure about its conclusions?
They are certain
Deductive reasoning provides a more definitive conclusion than inductive reasoning.
How are deductive arguments judged?
Valid or invalid
The evaluation focuses on the logical structure of the argument.
What is a sound argument?
One whose form is valid and whose propositions are true
Sound arguments guarantee true conclusions.
What do the premises in a deductive argument provide?
All the evidence required for the conclusion
This makes deductive arguments very robust.
What is the classic form of deductive arguments?
Syllogism
Syllogisms are structured to show logical relationships.
What are Categorical syllogisms composed of?
Each of a subject and a predicate that connect three terms
They are used to make generalizations based on categories.
