Verbal: Boldface and Method of Reasoning Flashcards

A passage argues: 'Most economists predict growth; however, history shows such predictions often fail; thus caution is warranted.' The middle clause functions as:

Answer: Evidence undermining the predictions

The historical-failure clause supplies grounds to doubt the predictions, supporting the cautious conclusion.

An argument responds to an objection by conceding a minor point while denying the main one. This method is:

Answer: Concession and rebuttal

Granting a small point and then refuting the central claim is concession and rebuttal.

In a boldface question, the first boldface is a prediction and the second is a finding that the prediction came true. The second boldface is best labeled:

Answer: Evidence confirming the prediction

A finding showing the prediction held is confirming evidence.

Which describes the method when an author refutes a generalization by presenting a single counterexample?

Answer: Disproving a claim with a contradicting instance

One contradicting case can show a universal generalization is false.

A boldface statement is something the author assumes without stating support and uses to reach the conclusion. It functions as:

Answer: A premise

An unsupported statement used as a basis for the conclusion is a premise.

An argument establishes a general principle and then applies it to a specific case to reach a verdict. This method is:

Answer: Deductive application of a principle

Moving from a general rule to a particular instance is deductive application.

Why can the same boldface be a conclusion in one argument but a premise in another?

Answer: Roles depend on whether the statement is supported by or supports other claims in that argument

A statement's role is defined by its logical relationship to the rest of the specific argument.