Critical Thinking Flashcards

Which argument structure is deductively valid?

Answer: If P then Q; P is true; therefore Q is true

Modus ponens (If P then Q; P; therefore Q) is a classically valid deductive form.

What distinguishes an inference from an observation?

Answer: An observation is directly perceived; an inference is a conclusion drawn from evidence

Observations are direct sensory experiences; inferences interpret or explain those observations.

Which scenario demonstrates confirmation bias?

Answer: A student only reads articles that support his pre-existing opinion on a topic

Confirmation bias is the tendency to seek out information that confirms one's existing beliefs.

An argument is considered sound when it is:

Answer: Valid and all its premises are true

Soundness requires both logical validity and the truth of all premises.

Which rhetorical device appeals primarily to emotion rather than logic?

Answer: Telling a heartbreaking personal story to oppose a policy

Appealing to pathos uses emotional stories to persuade rather than logical evidence.

A classmate argues: 'We shouldn't listen to the principal's new rule because she was once late to school herself.' This is best described as:

Answer: An ad hominem fallacy

Attacking the character or past behavior of the person rather than the rule itself is ad hominem.

What is the primary purpose of a counterargument in a persuasive essay?

Answer: To acknowledge opposing views and then refute them to strengthen the argument

Acknowledging and refuting counterarguments demonstrates critical engagement and strengthens the writer's position.