Carefully read the following:
Module 6 Key Points
Download Module 6 Key Points
.
Module 2 Key Points
Download Module 2 Key Points
.
Read Strong, Weak, or Cogent
Download Strong, Weak, or Cogent
, a refresher on the strength, weakness, and cogency of an argument. Remember that:
In a strong inductive argument, the premises support the conclusion. So that if the premises were true, then the conclusion would be highly probable. Notice that we are supposing that the premises are true; they may in fact be false. But if the premises were true, we can say that these premises (based on our assumption) support the conclusion.
In a weak argument, the premises do not support the conclusion. So even if the premises were true, the conclusion would not be highly probable. Again, notice that we are supposing that the premises are true; they may in fact be false.
Now, what happens if the premises are in fact true (they are really the case)? For a weak argument, this would not help it become convincing (i.e., cogent), since truth cannot come to the rescue of an already weak argument. So, we say that weak arguments are unconvincing arguments (not cogent).
In contrast, if the premises are in fact true (they are really the case) and the inductive argument is also strong, then we say that strong arguments may also be convincing arguments (i.e., cogent).
Read the following arguments:
ARGUMENT #1:
1) 25% of heavy drug users die. 2) Bob is a heavy drug user. —————————- 3) Thus, Bob will probably die.
ARGUMENT #2:
1) 75% of heavy drug users die. 2) Bob is a heavy drug user. —————————- 3) Thus, Bob will probably die.
For each argument above (#1 and #2), describe whether it is weak or strong . In your own words, why is the argument weak, or strong?
Read the following arguments:
ARGUMENT #3:
1) 25% of heavy drug users die. (Suppose this premise is in fact true). 2) Bob is a heavy drug user. (Suppose this premise is in fact true). ———————————– 3) Thus, Bob will probably die.
ARGUMENT #4:
1) 75% of heavy drug users die. (Suppose this premise is in fact true). 2) Bob is a heavy drug user. (Suppose this premise is in fact true). ———————————– 3) Thus, Bob will probably die.
For each argument above (#3 and #4), determine whether it is cogent or not cogent. In your own words, why is the argument cogent or not cogent?
By the due date indicated, submit your answers in a Microsoft Word document.
