An inductive/deductive argument
What is an inductive/deductive argument? Name one KIND of each argument then give an example of each.
What is soundness/validity? Can we have one without the other? Give an example of each (along with examples of that lack both/either).
What is an informal fallacy? Pick two fallacies and explain them using/with your own examples.
What are the five principles of honest dialectical engagement (aka, the rules of engagement)? Identify and explain/define (w/examples).
Sample Solution
Inductive and Deductive Arguments
Inductive Argument: An argument that moves from specific observations to a general conclusion.
- Example: Every swan we've ever seen is white. Therefore, all swans are white.
Deductive Argument: An argument that moves from a general premise to a specific conclusion.
- Example: All mammals are warm-blooded. Dogs are mammals. Therefore, dogs are warm-blooded.
Soundness and Validity
Soundness: An argument is sound if it is both valid and has true premises.
- Example: All mammals are warm-blooded. Dogs are mammals. Therefore, dogs are warm-blooded. (This is a sound argument because it's valid and the premises are true.)
Validity: An argument is valid if its conclusion logically follows from its premises, regardless of whether the premises are true.
- Example: All cats are dogs. Fluffy is a cat. Therefore, Fluffy is a dog. (This is a valid argument, but it's not sound because the first premise is false.)
It's possible to have a valid argument that is not sound, but it's not possible to have a sound argument that is not valid.
Informal Fallacies
Ad Hominem: Attacking the person making the argument rather than the argument itself.
- Example: "You can't trust John's opinion on climate change because he's a liberal."
Appeal to Authority: Relying on the authority of an individual or institution without providing evidence to support the claim.
- Example: "Dr. Smith says that this product works, so it must be effective."
Five Principles of Honest Dialectical Engagement
- Truth-Seeking: A genuine commitment to finding the truth, rather than simply winning an argument.
- Open-Mindedness: A willingness to consider alternative viewpoints and to change one's own beliefs if necessary.
- Respectful Dialogue: Engaging in respectful and civil discourse, even when disagreeing with others.
- Clarity and Precision: Clearly articulating one's arguments and avoiding ambiguity.
- Critical Thinking: Evaluating arguments carefully and identifying potential biases and fallacies.