· Explain the meaning of the term ‘argument’ in logic. How does it differ from the second meaning of the term that we commonly use? · Use the Internet to search for an example of an argument in the media, or present an argument you encountered in your daily life. Explain the example: what are the argument’s two parts? Is it a good argument? How can you assess it?
The term “argument” has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In logic, an argument refers to a structured sequence of statements that are presented to support or justify a particular claim or conclusion. It is a fundamental concept in logic and critical thinking, aimed at establishing the logical validity and soundness of an argument.
In the context of logic, an argument consists of two main parts: premises and a conclusion. Premises are statements or propositions offered as evidence or reasons to support the conclusion. The conclusion, on the other hand, is the statement that the premises are intended to support. The logical relationship between the premises and the conclusion is the crux of an argument. If the premises logically entail or provide strong support for the conclusion, then the argument is considered valid.
However, it is important to note that the meaning of the term “argument” in logic differs from the everyday sense in which we commonly use it. In everyday language, an argument often refers to a verbal exchange or disagreement between individuals who have differing opinions or perspectives on a particular topic. This type of argument is more accurately described as a debate or dispute, rather than a logical argument.
An example of an argument in the media can be found in a news article discussing the impact of climate change on global temperatures. The article presents the following argument:
Premise 1: The concentration of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, in the atmosphere has been increasing due to human activities.
Premise 2: Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere.
Conclusion: Therefore, the increase in greenhouse gases is causing global temperatures to rise.
In this example, the premises are the statements about the increase in greenhouse gases and their ability to trap heat. The conclusion is the statement that these factors are causing global temperatures to rise.
To assess whether this argument is good or not, we can evaluate its logical validity and soundness. Validity refers to the logical relationship between the premises and the conclusion, while soundness refers to the truth or credibility of the premises. If an argument is both valid and has true premises, it is considered a good argument.
In this case, the argument appears to be valid because if we accept the truth of the premises, it logically follows that the conclusion is true. The increase in greenhouse gases and their ability to trap heat provide a logical explanation for the rise in global temperatures.
However, to assess the soundness of the argument, we need to verify the credibility and scientific consensus on the premises. Are the claims about the increase in greenhouse gases and their impact on global temperatures supported by scientific evidence and accepted by experts in the field? This requires further research and investigation.
Overall, the example argument presents a logical sequence of premises and a conclusion, and it appears to be a good argument if the premises are credible. Assessing arguments involves careful analysis of the logical structure, supporting evidence, and the knowledge base surrounding the topic under discussion.