Philosophy module #1
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: The presidential candidate made two serious gaffes in the last debate, so I suspect he will lose the election.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Bill must have taken the coin. We searched everyone at the party except Bill, and no one had the coin.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Certain types of mosquitoes spread malaria. Mosquito nets are inexpensive and help reduce the incidence of that dangerous disease. So, our company has decided to pledge one million dollars to buy nets for countries that cannot afford to supply their own citizens.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I can see that you have no intention of going to work today, so I guess you are getting bored with your job.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I can see the ink level inside the pen through the transparent tube. But when I use it, no ink comes out. So, there must be something broken in the pen.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I have seen him eating beef hot dogs and pepperoni pizza. It follows that he is not a vegetarian.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I'll have the house special since it is the cheapest thing on the menu.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? If Abraham Lincoln was born in 1970, then Abraham Lincoln was born after Barrack Obama. Abraham Lincoln was not born after Barrack Obama. Consequently, Abraham Lincoln was not born in 1970.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? If there were any significant amount of bleach in the water, I'd feel it on my fingertips. And this washcloth would lose some color. Thus, we can safely say there is no bleach in here.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Mr. Taylor has to be the most difficult teacher on campus. Therefore, I will not be taking his organic chemistry class.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? New bands have an easy way to reach a large audience. A band just starting out can rent inexpensive recording instruments and make their own music demo. They can then put it online so people can access it for free.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Our study found that 75% of senior citizens rely on public transportation. So, we should make sure that free and easy access to public transportation is available for all senior citizens.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Several artificial languages have been created but none have caught on. It follows that none will catch on in the future.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? She has scored above 93 on all three exams, she has not missed a class, and she has done exceptional homework, so she deserves an A for the course.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Superhero movies accounted for 60% of the motion picture profits last year. Given this, we can expect more of them in the near future.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? The President said that we can be energy-independent in 20 years because we are finding huge natural gas reserves in many parts of the country, oil reserves are higher than ever, and alternative energy research looks very promising.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? You don't stand a chance against my avatar. I have the Pendant of Power, the best weapon in the game.
Argument
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Every animal in the Cincinnati Zoo was imported from National Parks in Africa. The tiger you see here is in the Cincinnati Zoo. Therefore, the tiger you see here in the Cincinnati Zoo was imported from a National Park in Africa.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Every diamond is made from carbon. I have a diamond ring, so it is made from carbon.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Every plant produces oxygen. I have a rose bush, so it produces oxygen.
Deductive
Label the following deductive argument form. If S, then J. Not S. Not J.
Denying the antecedent
Label the following deductive argument form. L or D. Not L. D.
Disjunctive syllogism
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Our noses are sensitive to certain odors because we have evolved mechanisms to avoid dangerous substances.
Explanation
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most panda bears are cuddly creatures. Sally is a panda bear. So, Sally is a cuddly creature
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Our survey of 500 students showed that 72% indicate that they will oppose a tuition increase. Therefore, approximately 70% of all the students in the university oppose a tuition increase.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Several students were caught cheating on the test. Bill is a student, so Bill cheated on the test.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Some cakes are gluten free. We're having cake for dessert, so it probably is gluten free.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: The senate is controlled by the Republicans. Lee Rand is a senator, so he is probably a Republican.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: The treasure is probably under one of the stones in the yard. Once we check under every stone, we should find the treasure.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Whoever has home-court advantage usually wins. The Wolves have home-court advantage tonight. So, they'll probably win.
Inductive
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most law school graduates go on to practice law. Rachel is about to graduate from law school. So, she will probably practice law eventually.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most sea creatures are animals with gills. The aquarium near my house has just acquired a new sea creature, so it is probably an animal with gills.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Only 10% of people have ever served on a jury. Therefore, my grandfather probably has not served on a jury.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Thirty percent of all Kenyans are capable of running one mile in ten minutes. John Keter is a Kenyan. Quite likely, therefore, John Keter is capable of running one mile in ten minutes
Weak
Consider this argument: The gas pump automatically stopped pumping gas, so the car's gas tank is full. Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? Electricity to run the gas pump was interrupted.
Weaken
Consider this argument: Your car won't start. So your battery is dead. Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The gas gauge reads "Empty."
Weaken
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All judges are people with advanced degrees. All lawyers are people with advanced degrees. Thus, all judges are lawyers.
All C are E. All A are E. So, all C are A. Let C= cats, E = mammals, and A = dogs.
Label the following deductive argument form. If P, then D. D. P
Affirming the consequent
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: I don't like the color of my room, so I'm going to paint it.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Cassette players are hard to find since most people have moved on to digital music.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Apples are the most common fruit in grocery stores because there are so many varieties available all year round
Explanation
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: David Hume is the greatest philosopher who ever lived, since Quine said that Hume was his favorite philosopher, and given that Quine himself was a great philosopher and someone who ought to know. - Quine said that Hume was his favorite philosopher. - (Quine was) someone who ought to know. - David Hume is the greatest philosopher who ever lived. - Quine himself was a great philosopher.
David Hume is the greatest philosopher who ever lived
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All ducks quack. Spike is a duck, so Spike quacks.
Deductive
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Air travel is expensive because the airlines are charging outrageous rates for check-in luggage, and many airlines do not offer any free food or snacks, either.
Explanation
Does the following passage contain an argument? There's no point in going swimming until the rain and lightning and thunder stop.
No argument
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most cats are independent. . My sister just got a cat. Therefore, my sister's cat is independent.
Inductive
Label the following deductive argument form. If P, then D. If D, then S. If P, then S.
Hypothetical syllogism
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: I have decided to get a calico cat. I have gone over every online thread about cat behavior that I could find. Although most cats have some behavior quirks, the majority opinion seems to favor calico cats for their quiet disposition. -The majority opinion seems to favor calico cats for their quiet disposition. -Most cats have some behavior quirks. - I have decided to get a calico cat. -I have gone over every online thread about cat behavior that I could find.
I have decided to get a calico cat.
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Less than 50% of women above the age of 20 are managers. Sue is 19, so Sue is probably not a manager.
Strong
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: At least one cat in the kennel is sick. Therefore, most of the cats in the kennel are sick.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Creative people almost always have disciplined work habits. Susan is a creative person. Thus, she has disciplined work habits.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: It normally takes a week to get home delivery of appliances, and you bought the appliance today, so it will probably be delivered next week
Inductive
Label the following deductive argument form. If P, then D. Not D. Not P.
Modus tollens
Choose which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: My car costs over $20,000. My condo costs over $50,000. Therefore, my condo costs more than my car.
My car costs $61,240. My condo costs $57,899. So, my condo costs more than my car.
Does the following passage contain an argument? You can get many different kinds of life insurance policies, such as whole-life, universal life, term insurance, and variable life. A good insurance agent can explain the difference and help you decide which is best for you.
No argument
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: No television commercials are major human endeavors. Some television specials are not major human endeavors. So, some television specials are not television commercials.
No A are B. Some C are not B. So, some C are not A. Let A = animals, B = rocks, and C = cats
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: No aardvarks are vegetarians. Some predators are not vegetarians. Therefore, some predators are aardvarks.
No A are V. Some P are not V. So some P are A. Let A = cars, V = cats, P = mammals.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: No basketballs are cardboard spheres. Some disks are cardboard spheres. So, no disks are basketballs.
No B are C. Some D are C. So, no D are B. Let B = beagles, C = collies, and D = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: No underdeveloped countries are members of the United Nations Security Council. No South American countries are members of the United Nations Security Council. So, no underdeveloped countries are South American countries.
No U are I. No C are I. So, no U are C. Let U = cats, I = snakes, and C = mammals
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: The fact that Orlando is in Florida, and Florida is in the United States implies that Orlando is in the United States. - Orlando is in the United States. - Orlando is in Florida. -Florida is in Orlando. -Florida is in the United States.
Orlando is in the United States
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most astronauts are experienced pilots. Neil Armstrong was an astronaut, so he was probably an experienced pilot.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most babies weigh less than ten pounds at birth. My sister just had a baby, so it probably weighs less than ten pounds.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most fish are cold blooded. The walleye is a fish. Therefore, the walleye is probably cold blooded.
Strong
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: Tom was born before 1970. Jerry was born before 1971. Therefore, Tom was born before Jerry.
Tom was born in 1961. Jerry was born in 1960. Thus, Tom was born before Jerry.
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: After the odometer reached 200,000 miles, some 2004 Toyota Corolla engines stalled. You own a 2004 Toyota Corolla and your odometer reading is now at 199,995. Quite likely, your engine is about to stall.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Approximately 75% of men under the age of 20 have acne problems. Sam is over 20, so Sam has an acne problem.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Hanna tossed a coin five times, and in each case it came up tails. Thus, the next toss will be heads.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: I read that 45% of dogs have fleas. I have a dog, so it probably has fleas.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most astronauts are experienced pilots. Neil Armstrong was an astronaut, so he was probably not an experienced pilot.
Weak
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Since all cats are mammals and all mammals are animals, we can infer that all cats are animals. -All cats are mammals. -All cats are animals. -All mammals are animals. -All animals are mammals.
all cats are animals
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Socrates did not write anything. Most of what we know about Socrates comes from the writings of Plato. In addition, Plato had his own ideas which must have evolved over his lifetime of writing. Thus, it is difficult to know exactly what Socrates said on a given topic. - Socrates did not write anything. - Most of what we know about Socrates comes from the writings of Plato. -It is difficult to know exactly what Socrates said on a given topic. -Plato had his own ideas which must have evolved over his lifetime of writing.
it is difficult to know exactly what socrates said on a given topic
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Eating too much sugar can raise your blood pressure. Eating too much sugar can also lead to rapid weight gain and obesity. Processed foods and sodas contain high levels of sugar. Therefore, we ought to limit the amount of processed foods and sodas we consume. - Eating too much sugar can raise your blood pressure. - Processed foods and sodas contain high levels of sugar. - We ought to limit the amount of processed foods and sodas we consume. - Eating too much sugar can also lead to rapid weight gain and obesity.
we ought to limit the amount of processed foods and sodas we consume
Does the following passage contain an argument? I realize that going to the beach is a nice thing, but so is spending time with our parents.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Many athletes die in nearly all sports around the world, including football, boxing, horse racing, baseball, basketball, and soccer. In fact, recent trends have shown that even with all the new and improved equipment, deaths still occur at an alarming rate.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? My brother suffers from insomnia. His doctor said that the best way to cure it is to get a lot of sleep.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? My new hairbrush is made of plastic. It cost only one dollar at the thrift store on Lexington Avenue.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Stop being the person you have invented. Just be yourself.
No argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: All the other kids get to stay up past nine when on weekends. And I already finished my homework for next week. You should let me stay up late tonight.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Because Hawaii has great weather the entire year, it probably has the most international tourists of any U.S. state.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Every woman has a right to pre-natal care, no matter what her personal income happens to be. Thus, if she cannot afford it, we must make pre-natal care free to her.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Free speech is a right guaranteed by the Constitution. Thus, any attempt to limit it is a violation of the law of the land.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: I have a headache and muscle pain, so I need to take some medication.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: If unemployment is rising, then the tax base will shrink. If the tax base shrinks, then the deficit will grow. Statistics show that unemployment is rising faster than ever. Given this, it is clear that the deficit will grow.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Many voters are disappointed with the current two-party system. Therefore, we can expect that many independent candidates will win the upcoming national elections.
Argument
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Our galaxy contains billions of stars, so it stands to reason that some of those stars have planets orbiting around them where life exists.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? You cannot afford a new car. First, you only work part-time. Second, you don't have any money saved. Third, the price of gasoline, car payments, maintenance, and insurance will be too costly for you each month.
Argument
dentify the conclusion in the following argument: Belgium must always have three official languages, since the people in the north speak Flemish, the people in the south speak French, and the people in the east speak German. - Belgium must always have three official languages. - The people in the north speak Flemish. - The people in the east speak German. - The people in the south speak French.
Belgium must always have three official languages
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: The consensus among scientists is that global warming is a fact. Evidence from a variety of sciences all support the idea. Although there are some scientists who disagree with the idea, the vast majority of scientists all agree that it is a serious problem. Therefore, every country should do all it can within its means to combat the problem. - The consensus among scientists is that global warming is a fact. -Evidence from a variety of sciences all support the idea. -Although there are some scientists who disagree with the idea, the vast majority of scientists all agree that it is a serious problem. -Every country should do all it can within its means to combat the problem.
Every country should do all it can within its means to combat the problem.
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: That book is missing because someone stole it.
Explanation
Does the following passage contain an argument? Although artificial intelligence has not yet been realized, even Stephen Hawking, the famous physicist, worries that some day advanced robots or androids will achieve sentience and threaten our existence.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Don't take classes with Mr. Taylor. You'd be crazy to want him for a teacher.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Exercising helps reduce obesity, lowers your cholesterol, and regulates your blood pressure.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I am worn out from a tough week at work. This job is getting very difficult.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I believe we should all uphold the virtue of tolerance. I believe tolerance is the way to go for all progressive societies. I believe everybody should embrace this view.
No argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I know that doughnuts are addicting, and they contain a lot of sugar. But I love the taste, and it goes great with my morning coffee.
No argument
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: In previous centuries, printed books functioned as useful tools for storing information. In this century, computers are replacing books as tools for storing information, and printed books are used less frequently than in the past. Therefore, printed books will likely get phased out in the next few centuries. - In previous centuries, printed books functioned as useful tools for storing information. - In this century, computers are replacing books as tools for storing information. - Printed books are used less frequently than in the past. -Printed books will likely get phased out in the next few centuries.
Printed books will likely get phased out in the next few centuries.
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Either the candidate from the Democratic Party or the candidate from the Republican Party will win the next United States presidential election. The population of registered Democrats remains significantly higher than the population of registered Republicans, and no Democrat will vote for a Republican, so the candidate from the Democratic Party will win the next United States presidential election. - No Democrat will vote for a Republican. -The population of registered Democrats remains significantly higher than the population of registered Republicans. -Either the candidate from the Democratic Party or the candidate from the Republican Party will win the next United States presidential election. - The candidate from the Democratic Party will win the next United States presidential election.
The candidate from the Democratic Party will win the next United States presidential election.
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: In many instances, big oil interests in the Middle East have influenced our government's decisions to go to war. The voters of this country feel like they have little say in making public policy. Not voting does not help, so we need a large groundswell of activists who can fight big oil interests. - We need a large groundswell of activists who can fight big oil interests. - The voters of this country feel like they have little say in making public policy. - In many instances, big oil interests in the Middle East have influenced our government's decisions to go to war. -Not voting does not help.
We need a large groundswell of activists who can fight big oil interests
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Space exploration costs a lot of money, but surveys have shown that taxpayers would rather support space exploration than military spending. It is also true that space exploration has direct scientific benefits to society. Thus, we should spend more money on space exploration. -We should spend more money on space exploration. -Surveys have shown that taxpayers would rather support space exploration than military spending. - Space exploration has direct scientific benefits to society. - Space exploration costs a lot of money.
We should spend more money on space exploration.
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: If the Cubs build a new stadium, they will be able to increase attendance. If they increase attendance, they will increase revenue. And, if they increase revenue, they might be able to make it to the World Series. So, the Cubs should build a new stadium. - If they increase attendance, they will increase revenue. - If the Cubs build a new stadium, they will be able to increase attendance. - The Cubs should build a new stadium. - If they increase revenue, they might be able to make it to the World Series.
the cubs should build a new stadium
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All victories are short-lived accomplishments. All victories are psychologically addicting actions. It follows that all short-lived accomplishments are psychologically addicting actions.
All A are B. All A are C. So, all B are C. Let A = puppies, B = mammals, and C = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the following argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All smokers are people who put their health at risk. All smokers are people who lack self-control. Therefore, all people who put their health at risk are people who lack self-control.
All A are B. All A are C. So, all B are C. Let A=Collies, B=Animals, C=Dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All teachers are dedicated people. All teachers are educators. So, all educators are dedicated people.
All A are B. All A are C. So, all C are B. Let A = girls, B = females, and C = mammals.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All traffic citations are misdemeanors. All parking tickets are misdemeanors. Therefore, all traffic citations are parking tickets.
All A are B. All C are B. So, all A are C. Let A = cats, B = animals, and C = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All sales items are returnable items. No items over $100 are sales items. Therefore, no items over $100 are returnable items.
All A are B. No C are A. So, no C are B. Let A = cats, B = animals, and C = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All people who have library cards are great readers. No lazy readers are people who have library cards. Therefore, no lazy readers are great readers.
All A are B. No C are A. So, no C are B. Let A = fish, B = animals, and C = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All hockey players are good ice skaters. Some hockey players are not Canadian citizens. So, some Canadian citizens are not good ice skaters.
All A are B. Some A are not C. So, some C are not B. Let A = dogs, B = animals, and C = beagles.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All missiles are heat-seeking weapons. Some heat-seeking weapons are unstable devices. So, some unstable devices are missiles.
All A are B. Some B are C. So, some C are A. Let A = cats, B = mammals, and C = rodents.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All writers are highly literate people. Some highly literate people are not extroverts. So, some writers are not extroverts.
All A are B. Some B are not C. So, some A are not C. Let A = beagles, B = animals, and C = dogs.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All frightened people are people who need help. Some people with phobias are people who need help. So, some people with phobias are frightened people.
All A are B. Some C are B. So, some C are A. Let A = dogs, B = animals, and C = cats.
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: All movie stars are millionaires. All movie stars are famous people. So, all millionaires are famous people.
All S are F. All S are P. So, all F are P. Let S = puppies, F = mammals, and P = dogs.
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Some kinds of mold are harmful to humans and some are not. Therefore, it's best to have someone examine the mold in your house to see if you are in danger.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Digital video cameras are a good buy because you can get one at a fraction of the cost even five years ago, and they are built to last.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? His pants have pinstripes, his shirt has horizontal bars, and his shoes have circles painted on them. Thus, he has no sense of fashion.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? I read that most accidents occur in the kitchen. Therefore, I have decided to give up cooking.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? The highest paid CEOs make more than the combined income of all the hourly-paid employees in many of their companies. In light of this, you must agree that this is something that has to change.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? The library relies on funds to replenish the book inventory. Thus, we will continue to impose fines on overdue or lost books.
Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? We made a mistake in buying a new car because we both have been downgraded to part-time workers and we can no longer afford the car payments.
Argument
Choose which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: Beatrice is taller than four feet. Jacob is taller than four feet six inches. Thus, Jacob is taller than Beatrice
Beatrice is six feet two inches tall. Jacob is six feet one inch tall. Thus, Jacob is taller than Beatrice.
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All dogs belong to the class of mammals. All mammals belong to the class of animals. Hence, all dogs belong to the class of animals.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All hawks have keen vision. Zeus is a hawk. So, Zeus has keen vision.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All loons are birds. All birds are animals. Therefore, all loons are animals.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All rats, including pet rats, are nocturnal creatures. My sister has a pet rat. It follows that my sister's pet rat is a nocturnal creature.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All registered voters are citizens. Joe is a registered voter, so Joe is a citizen.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Every scientist is an honorable person. Steven Hawking is a scientist; therefore, Steven Hawking is an honorable person.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: If you study hard, you'll pass the test. If you pass the test, you'll graduate. Therefore, if you study hard, you'll graduate.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Jack is 25 years old. Anyone older than 18 is eligible to vote, so Jack is eligible to vote.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: No history course is boring. I'm taking a history course, so it is not boring.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: No hurricane is a storm that has winds under 50 miles per hour. Tropical storm Ralph has winds at 35 miles per hour, so tropical storm Ralph is not a hurricane.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Paul is taller than Alice. Alice is taller than Sharon. Therefore, Paul is taller than Sharon.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Robbie has a limited range of motion because every robot has a limited range of motion, and Robbie is a robot
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: That tree is either a cedar or a pine. However, it is definitely not a cedar. So, it must be a pine.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: The A range on the exam is 90-100. I got a 97 on the exam. Thus, I got an A on the exam.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: The syllabus states that if a student receives at least a ninety on every exam and homework, then he or she will get an "A" for the course. I have at least a ninety on every exam and homework, thus I will get an "A" for the course.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: There are no octagon-shaped fruit. Papayas are fruit. Thus, papayas are not octagon-shaped
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Winners never quit and quitters never win. Mike and Tom both quit, so they won't win.
Deductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Without exception, whales are mammals. Kendra is a whale, so Kendra is a mammal
Deductive
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: He stopped taking classes because he decided to take a full-time job.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: I invited him to come in and clean up. He was soaking wet from the rain, his clothes were muddy, and he looked like he could use a hot meal.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: I just read that the average airplane ticket to Atlantic City has dropped considerably. That's probably due to the fact that so many casinos have closed recently and the city is trying to attract tourists.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: I painted your room because I thought you didn't like the original color.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: It rains so much in Seattle because the city is trapped between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: My dad continues to work because he cannot afford to live on Social Security benefits.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: My mother was given a hefty raise at work because she is reliable and a hard worker.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: On September 11, 2001, a plane crashed into the Pentagon because terrorists hijacked the plane and used it as a tool to launch an attack on American soil.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: She was late for the interview because she got stuck in traffic
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Smartphones are popular because they have been marketed wisely.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: The reason why I have a headache is I have too much on my plate this semester.
Explanation
Determine whether the following passage contains an argument or an explanation: Your dog is ill because he ate some bad meat.
Explanation
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: All female anopheles mosquitos examined and tested so far can transmit the malaria parasite from an infected person to another person. Therefore, the next female anopheles mosquito to be examined and tested will, quite likely, have the capacity to transmit the malaria parasite from an infected person to another person.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Many dogs are vicious. Fido is a dog. So Fido is vicious.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Many forest fires are caused by careless people. A new fire has started in the forest near our home. It follows that the fire was caused by a careless person.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Many smartphones have hundreds of apps. My mother has a smartphone, so it has hundreds of apps
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Mike is sick, so he probably won't go to the movies with us.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most Americans are unable to name all nine Supreme Court justices. Lydia is an American. So, she is unlikely to be able to name all nine justices.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most campers take along rain gear. My cousin went camping this weekend, so he probably took along rain gear.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most cars produce some carbon emissions. I drive a car, so my car produces some carbon emissions.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Most horses can run a mile under two minutes. Shana has a horse, so it probably can run a mile under two minutes.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: Ninety-five percent of students at the University of Kentucky support the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team. You are a student at the University of Kentucky. Quite likely, therefore, you are a supporter of the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team.
Inductive
Determine whether the following argument is best classified as deductive or inductive: The overwhelming majority of citizens are against rioting in the streets. Sammy is a citizen, so he probably is against rioting in the streets.
Inductive
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Sixty percent of all Kenyans are capable of running one mile in ten minutes. John Keter is a Kenyan. Quite likely, therefore, John Keter is capable of running one mile in ten minutes.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Ten percent of all dollar bills have been printed this year. I have a dollar bill, so it probably has not been printed this year.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: The majority of birds sing. My aunt has a parakeet, so it probably sings.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Thirty-three percent of all plumbers are self-employed. My cousin Sal is a plumber, so he is not self-employed.
Strong
Choose which argument form correctly models the given argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: Some rice products are pastry items. All pastry items are tasty treats. So, some tasty treats are not rice products.
Some A are B. All B are C. So, some C are not A. Let A = animals, B = cats, and C = mammals.
Choose which argument form correctly models the following argument, and which substitutions create a counterexample that shows the argument is invalid: Some lovers of football are avid readers. Some avid readers are good learners. Therefore, some lovers of football are good learners.
Some A are B. Some B are C. So, some A are C. Let A=Dogs, B=Animals, C=cats
Consider this argument: The gas pump automatically stopped pumping gas, so the car's gas tank is full. Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The gas gauge in the car reads "Full."
Strengthen
Consider this argument: The lamp in your room does not work, so the lightbulb is defective. Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? Every other electrical fixture in house works.
Strengthen
Consider this argument: Your car won't start. So your battery is dead. Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The battery has no water in the cells
Strengthen
Consider this argument: Your car won't start. So your battery is dead. Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The car starts after you jump-start it with another car.
Strengthen
Consider this argument: "Craig is weak. So, he is probably hungry." Would the following claim strengthen or weaken the argument? "Craig has not eaten for four days."
Strengthen
Consider this argument: "Your car will not start, so you are probably out of gas." Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? "The gas tank gauge indicates that the tank is empty."
Strengthen
Consider this argument: "Your car will not start, so you are probably out of gas." Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? "You have not put in any gas for two weeks."
Strengthen
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Almost no 3D TVs last more than 10 years. I just bought a new 3D TV, so probably it won't last more than 10 years.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Approximately 75% of men above the age of 50 live to be 85. Arthur is 51, so Arthur will live to be at least 85
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Approximately 75% of men under the age of 20 have acne problems. Sam is under 20, so Sam has an acne problem.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: I read that 45% of dogs have fleas. I have a dog, so it probably does not have fleas
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: On weekdays, there is a 90% chance that anyone driving through Main Street in Nicholasville, Kentucky at 12:00 P.M. will be caught in a traffic jam. Therefore, if Peter drives through Main Street in Nicholasville, Kentucky on a weekday at 12:00 P.M., he will, quite likely, find himself caught in a traffic jam.
Strong
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Over half of all US Senators have law degrees. Amy is a US Senator. Therefore it is likely that she has a law degree.
Strong
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: The city of Atlanta will likely receive some rain tomorrow for several reasons: the weather forecast warned that the city would have heavy showers and thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday, and they did have heavy showers and thunderstorms. Also, the weather forecast warned that the city would have heavy showers and thunderstorms today, and the city is currently experiencing heavy showers and thunderstorms. -The weather forecast warned that the city would have heavy showers and thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday, and they did have heavy showers and thunderstorms. -The city did have heavy showers and thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday. - The city of Atlanta will likely receive some rain tomorrow. -The weather forecast warned that the city would have heavy showers and thunderstorms today, and the city is currently experiencing heavy showers and thunderstorms.
The city of Atlanta will likely receive some rain tomorrow.
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: There will never be a group as popular as the Beatles. Modern music listeners have more music genres than ever to choose from. Also, some groups make a lot of money quickly and then disappear. In addition, music companies drop artists after one poor selling album. -Some groups make a lot of money quickly and then disappear. -Modern music listeners have more music genres than ever to choose from. - Music companies drop artists after one poor selling album -There will never be a group as popular as the Beatles.
There will never be a group as popular as the Beatles.
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Most babies weigh less than ten pounds at birth. My sister just had a baby, so it probably weighs more than ten pounds.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Over 30% of women above the age of 20 are managers. Sue is 21, so Sue is probably a manager.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Since he relocated to Nicholasville two months ago, every time Peter drove through Main Street in Nicholasville, Kentucky at 12:00 P.M., he found himself caught in a traffic jam. The jam, however, was caused by construction traffic along a section of Nicholasville. The construction is now over, and the construction crew, which caused the jam, will now relocate to Dayton, Ohio, for a new assignment. However, if Peter drives through Main Street in Nicholasville, Kentucky at 12:00 P.M. two weeks from today, we can conclude that he will, quite likely, find himself caught in a similar traffic jam.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Some birds are flightless. The Lorikeet is a bird. So, the Lorikeet must be flightless.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Some cows are brown. That farmer has a cow, so it probably is brown.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Ten percent of all dollar bills have been printed this year. I have a dollar bill, so it probably has been printed this year.
Weak
Determine whether the following inductive argument is strong or weak: Thirty-three percent of all plumbers are self-employed. My cousin Sal is a plumber, so he is self-employed.
Weak
Consider this argument: "You are feeling sick to your stomach, so you probably got food poisoning from dinner." Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The flu is going around.
Weaken
Consider this argument: The gas pump automatically stopped pumping gas, so the car's gas tank is full. Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? The gas pump is defective.
Weaken
Consider this argument: The gas pump automatically stopped pumping gas, so the car's gas tank is full. Would the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? You pre-paid $5.00 for gas.
Weaken
Consider this argument: The lamp in your room does not work, so the lightbulb is defective. Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? There is a major power outage in your neighborhood.
Weaken
Consider this argument: "Your car will not start, so you are probably out of gas." Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? "The gas tank gauge indicates the tank is at least half full."
Weaken
Consider this argument: "Your car will not start, so you are probably out of gas." Would adding the following claim strengthen or weaken that argument? "You just filled up the tank last night."
Weaken
Does the following passage contain an argument? A free society requires unfettered public access to government policies, including domestic and all international decisions. Anything less results in citizens being disenfranchised from the democratic process. Given this, we must make sure that political candidates will fight for our basic rights.
argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Every argument needs premises and a conclusion. Your speech has many interesting ideas, but you don't have a conclusion. Therefore, your speech does not contain an argument.
argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? She just inherited one million dollars, so she will probably buy a new house and car.
argument
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Assuming that I can get the guitar for under $500, I should buy it. This follows from the fact that it's a classic, and it's very difficult to find. - I can get the guitar for under $500. - It's a classic - I should buy it. - It's very difficult to find.
i should buy it
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: My uncle would never have embezzled from his company. He was a loyal employee for over 25 years, and his work actually saved the company several millions of dollars in missed oversights. The police also said that he passed two lie detector tests. -My uncle would never embezzle from his company. -The police said that he passed two lie detector tests. - My uncle was a loyal employee for over 25 years. You Answered - My uncle's work actually saved the company several millions of dollars in missed oversights.
my uncle would never embezzle from hum company
Does the following passage contain an argument? Desert living requires a lot of environment disruption that we cannot afford to impose on our weakened environment.
no Argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Detectives have found fingerprints and blood stains in the victim's apartment. No weapons were found at the scene of the crime. Police are actively questioning the victim's neighbors to see if anyone has any information that can help locate the perpetrator or perpetrators.
no argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Individuals and societies need to reflect on the past in order to avoid mistakes. They also need to learn what has worked and why. When we study the past we have an ongoing dialogue with the ideas that have been tested through time's laboratory.
no argument
Does the following passage contain an argument? Our theories and hypotheses regarding space and time have changed dramatically in the last few centuries. It was once thought that the Sun, other planets, and stars circle around Earth, but we now know that the Earth circles around the Sun. In addition, our solar system is just one tiny part of the Milky Way galaxy, which in turn is just one galaxy among billions of others that make up the universe.
no argument
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Her car is not a Ford and it's not a Chevrolet, and those are the only domestic cars that she would ever buy. So she must own a foreign car. - Her car is not a Chevrolet. -Fords and Chevrolets are the only domestic cars that she would ever buy. - She must own a foreign car. - Her car is not a Ford.
she must own a foreign
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: The men under the explosion were actually in a relatively safe position. This follows from the fact that the bomb had a small nuclear yield, and it was 1000 feet above them. They weren't directly in the path of the radiation. Also, the radioactive material would start to diffuse rather quickly. - The radioactive material would start to diffuse rather quickly. -The bomb had a small nuclear yield, and it was 1000 feet above them. -They weren't directly in the path of the radiation. - The men under the explosion were actually in a relatively safe position.
the men under the explosion were actually in a relatively safe position
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Many people have tried to manipulate the stock market. Traders have attempted to lower the price of a stock by short selling, or spreading negative rumors about a stock. However, because there is a substantial profit incentive to bet against such manipulators, this sort of manipulation is unlikely to be effective in the long run. - There is a substantial profit incentive to bet against such manipulators. - Traders have attempted to lower the price of a stock by short selling, or spreading negative rumors about a stock. - This sort of manipulation is unlikely to be effective in the long run - Many people have tried to manipulate the stock market.
this sort of manipulation is unlikely to be effective in the long wrong
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: We have to bring the baby to the phone store. After all, our oldest child, who has the most knowledge about cell phones, needs to be with us. Plus, we can't leave the baby at home with his young siblings. And both of us have to be there to agree on the new phone and the service plan. - We have to bring the baby to the phone store. - We can't leave the baby at home with his young siblings. - Our oldest child, who has the most knowledge about cell phones, needs to be with us. - Both of us have to be there to decide on the new phone and the service plan.
we have to bring the baby to the phone to store
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: We should drop the term "artificial" in "artificial intelligence." After all, a computer program beat several champions on the game show Jeopardy. Another computer program defeated a chess grand master. And many computer programs can solve mathematical problems far quicker than any human. - We should drop the term "artificial" in "artificial intelligence." - A computer program beat several champions on the game show Jeopardy. -Another computer program defeated a chess grand master. -Many computer programs can solve mathematical problems far quicker than any human.
we should drop the term "artificial" in "artificial intelligence "
Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Real friends are reliable. Real friends are honest. Real friends are happy when we succeed and supportive when we suffer. Real friends are hard to find. It follows that you should cherish your true friends<p>Identify the conclusion in the following argument: Real friends are reliable. Real friends are honest. Real friends are happy when we succeed and supportive when we suffer. Real friends are hard to find. It follows that you should cherish your true friends.</p>. -Real friends are reliable. - Real friends are honest. -Real friends are happy when we succeed and supportive when we suffer. -You should cherish your true friends.
you should cherish your true friends
