Saturday, October 22, 2011

Ch 8: Diagrams

In Chapter eight, we are introduced to a concept where diagrams are used to show how certain types of arguments work. These diagrams express valid and invalid forms. This was of viewing certain arguments opens up a whole other way of looking at things. This way of working out claims makes a lot more sense to me, being able to see what goes where creates more clarity in my mind.

Examples:

Strong: Football players are male. Danny is male. Therefore, Danny is a football player.

Weak: Football players are male. Danny is a football player. Therefore, Danny is male.

A diagram that expressed what the strong argument would be as follows:

Largest Circle: Male

Middle Circle: Football Players

Smallest (inside middle circle): Danny

It can be seen that all Football players are male, and Danny fits into the categories of both being male and being a football player. This visual scenario can help one see an argument in a different light!

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