Logical Reasoning Pt 2. Analyzing Arguments.

Apuntes

• Subtopic: Understanding Arguments An argument consists of a main conclusion and evidence. The main conclusion is the statement that the arguer wants us to accept, regardless of its truth. Evidence, also known as premises or support, is provided to demonstrate that the conclusion is true. The evidence answers the question, "Why do you believe the conclusion is true?" Simple arguments may have one piece of evidence, while complex arguments can have several. It's important to note that the order of the conclusion does not matter. For example, in the argument: "[Sarah will probably receive a job offer] [because she has ten years of experience]," the conclusion is that Sarah will probably receive a job offer, and the evidence is her ten years of experience. • Subtopic: Intermediate Conclusions More complex arguments might include an intermediate conclusion, also known as a subsidiary conclusion or sub-conclusion. This is a claim that functions both as a conclusion and as evidence. In other words, it's a conclusion based on evidence, but it cannot be the main conclusion because it leads to another conclusion. Consider the argument: "Sarah will probably receive a job offer because ...