Models of Reasoning
Definition of Deductive Reasoning
- Starts with a general principle or assumption, the applies it to a specific situation (deducts from a bigger idea)
- Written in an “if...and if...then…” formula
- Requires shared values; must know audience
Definition of Claim
a statement or assertion that requires support to be validated
Definition of Logical Fallacy
an error in reasoning
Give an example of a Bandwagon
"if many believe it is so, then it is so" etc
Definition of Stance
the thesis or position in an argument; must be defended
Definition of Inductive Reasoning
- Goes from specific to general
- Written in discovery mode: starts with observations, identifies connecting thread
Definition of Rebuttal
anticipates and responds to counter-arguments
Where can you find examples of fallacious reasoning?
Politics, advertisements, and other sources
Give an example of a JAQ
Have you finally...? Will you stop...? etc
How should a writer convey their voice?
- should be identifiable and convey positive traits: honesty, sincerity, authority, intelligence
- respect opposing views and represent them in a fair and undistorted way
Definition of Pro & Con Synthesis
- Explores 2 sides of an issue
- Moves from point, to counterpoint, to reasonable conclusion (aiming for a richer, more balanced view)
- Thesis → Antithesis → Synthesis
Definition of Premise
a proposition or idea
Definition of No true Scotsman
This occurs when one side makes a universal claim, but is then presented with an exception to refute that claim. They then dismiss that exception as not being “true” or really part of a whole.
Give an example of a Syllogism
"All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.", etc
Definition of Qualify
you admit that the author’s ideas has some validity, but you also show how it falls short of being absolutely correct
Definition of Toulmin
claims, grounds, respond to rebuttals
Definition of Enthymeme
a syllogism where the major premise is so widely known and accepted, it can be left out
Definition of Begging the Question
Attempts to support the premise with the premise. Does not provide any grounds or support.
Give an example of an Enthymeme
"Socrates is a man, so he is mortal", etc
Definition of Unrepresentative Sample
When data is flawed due to errors of omission
Definition of Rogerian
problem, common ground, concessions, stance
The 3 Approaches in Rebuttals
- Strategic Concession
- Refutation
- Demonstration of Irrelevance
Assuming a causal relationship that is not warranted. Also called False Cause Fallacy. Chronology does not constitute causation: just because A happened before B happened, it does not mean that A caused B.
Give an example of Non Sequitur
Mascots and cereal, etc
Definition of Strategic Concession
acknowledgment of some of the merits of opposing view. In some cases, this may mean accepting or incorporating come components of an author’s argument, while rejecting other parts of it.