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Argumentation comprises a big part of logical reasoning and data interpretation. A good argument is supported by strong evidence and leads up to a logical conclusion. This article covers different types of arguments and statements, explains the basic concepts of statements and arguments and aids in solving statement-argument based questions.
What is an Argument in logical reasoning?
A proposition made in favour or against a topic supported by evidence of some kind is called an argument.
An argument consists of many components such as statement, evidence, assumption, premise and conclusion.
Definition of argument components:
Statement: It’s a sentence that provides us with the initial information for drawing a conclusion.
Premise: It gives us the context and basis for reaching a conclusion.
Evidence: It provides proof of “why” this particular conclusion is valid.
Conclusion: It is the final statement that gives us the standpoint of the speaker on the particular subject.
Examples of argument components
Statement: Mom will be angry if Aryan doesn’t wash the dishes.
Premise: Mom asked Aryan to wash the dishes.
Evidence: Mom had previously shown anger when chores were not completed by Aryan.
Conclusion: Aryan should wash the dishes.
Types of Arguments
Deductive Arguments
These types of arguments are based on general situations and are used to reach a specific conclusion.
In a deductive argument, if the premises are true, then the probability of the conclusion being true is 100%.
It is a top-down process, where the wider, non-specific theories are narrowed down to reach a strong affirmative deduction.
It is the type of reasoning used in police investigations.
In this type of argument, it is impossible for the conclusion to be false if the premises are known to be true.
Example: Lakes are usually home to ducks; therefore, a lake must have ducks in it.
2. Inductive Arguments
This type of argument is in stark contrast with the previous type.
Here, the reasoning of certain specific situations is used to come to a general conclusion.
In an Inductive argument, if the premises are true, then the conclusion is most likely to be true rather than being 100% true.
It is a bottom-down process as those particular reasons build into a relatively general conclusion.
Example: A did his homework. B did his homework. Mostly, all students did their homework.
What is a strong argument?
A strong argument is supported by reasons that are real, simple and promptly recognisable.
Universal laws and government laws usually make good arguments.
It is practical in nature and states its message precisely.
What is a weak argument?
It is loose-ended and ambiguous.
It is superfluous in nature, and the logic is too simple.
Certain words such as only, definitely are present in weak arguments.
Examples of strong and weak arguments
Statement 1: 50% of X are A
All X is B
Therefore, all A is B.
Explanation: A is only 50% as likely to be B, and that is not a large enough number for it to qualify as a strong argument.
Statement 2: 90% of X are A
All X is B
So, All A is B.
Explanation: In this case, A is 90% as likely to be B, and that is almost 100%; therefore, it can qualify as a strong argument.
Guidelines to solve statement-argument based questions
These questions usually consist of a statement that provides an opinion regarding a particular subject.
Consequently, a couple or more options for arguments are given.
One has to choose the correct answer from the following options.
Both arguments are strong.
None of the arguments is strong.
Only one of the arguments is strong.
Other similar variations
Some questions may require the solver to have certain background information regarding the subject to solve the question correctly.
Multiple scenarios and possible outcomes should be considered before choosing the correct answer.
One should be well-versed in the basic concepts of statements and arguments in logical reasoning.
The correct option should be chosen only on the basis of logic and not preconceived notions regarding the subject.
Examples of Statements and Arguments
Statement 1: Should parents invest equally in their children’s marriage as well as education?
Argument 1: No, Parents should invest in marriage more.
Argument 2: Parents should invest in education more as it is more helpful for the children’s future.
A: Argument 2 is strong, and Argument 1 is weak.
B: Both arguments are weak.
C: Both arguments are strong.
D: Both arguments are invalid.
Explanation: Argument 1 is a weak one as it gives no evidence for its stance, whereas Argument 2 makes a logical conclusion with proof. Therefore, the correct option is A.
Statement 2: Should all companies have a 4-day work week?
Argument 1: Yes, as it cuts travel costs for employees
Argument 2: Yes, because employees tend to do better quality of work when they are well-rested.
A: Argument 2 is strong, and Argument 1 is weak.
B: Both arguments are weak.
C: Both arguments are strong.
D: Argument 1 is invalid, and Argument 2 is strongly valid.
Explanation: Lower travel costs for employees is not a logical reason for the company to reduce its number of workdays; however, the better quality of work certainly is; hence the correct option is D.
Conclusion
The concepts of statements and arguments are based on strict adherence to logical interpretation of statements and choosing the best possible alternative.
Arguments are made up of components, and all main components should be identified to reach the correct conclusion.
Examples of statements and arguments are often based on real-life issues. However, one must apply that knowledge to questions and consider only the information given in the statement.
