Lesson 3: The Argument

Question 1

Define argument

Answer 1

A set of propositions of which one is a conclusion and the remainder are premises intended as support for the conclusion

Or

A group of statements that intend to affirm the truth or acceptability of a claim.

Question 2

Define proposition

Answer 2

It is the factual content expressed by a declarative sentence on a particular occasion

Or

A statement is an assertion that is true or false

Question 3

Define conclusion

Answer 3

A statement in an argument that the premises are intended to support

Question 4

How to identify conclusion

Answer 4

1. Ask what is point of argument
2. Any proposition can be a conclusion
3. There can be more than 1 conclusion
4. Look for conclusion indicators like words: therefore,in conclusion,so, it follows, consequently,thus, accordingly

Question 5

Define premise

Answer 5

A statement that is supposed to serve as a reason for accepting an argument. The premise serves a specific function which is to support the conclusion.

Question 6

How can you identify the premise

Answer 6

1. Ask what are the reasons for believing conclusion.
2. A premise need not be universally accepted or uncontroversial
3. Look for premise indicators like because,for, if,moreover, since, given that,whereas,firstly…,in light of
4. Add premise indicators in front of or between propositions

Question 7

What are complex arguments

Answer 7

It is an argument that contains a sub argument which are also known as chain arguments

Question 8

What constitutes an implicit premise

Answer 8

When a premise is missing which are also know as assumptions. Which means an arguer holds a view but isn’t explicitly stating it but is a given idea.

Question 9

Comment on implicit conclusion

Answer 9

It is when an argument could contain a missing conclusion.