Key question
Could the premises be true and the conclusion false?
Check your understanding
Find an example, an application and a limit. Explain the concept without using its name, then compare your explanation with a primary source.
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Claims to examine
An argument’s form and the truth of its premises need separate checks.
Follow a learning route
How do you tell a strong argument from a persuasive one?
Reconstruct an argument, check its evidence and respond to an objection.
Reading connections
Introduction to Philosophy: 5.3 Arguments
Introduction to Philosophy: 5.4 Types of Inferences
Introduction to Philosophy: 2.4 Gathering Information, Evaluating Sources, and Understanding Evidence
Introduction to Philosophy: 7.5 Applied Epistemology
Introduction to Philosophy: 5.5 Informal Fallacies
Introduction to Philosophy: 2.2 Overcoming Cognitive Biases and Engaging in Critical Reflection
Introduction to Philosophy: 7.2 Knowledge
Introduction to Philosophy: 7.3 Justification