Peer Review : Argument Deconstruction
I. Write a definition for each of the following in your own words and provide an example of each.
1. Syllogism (Aristotle) means a method of judging the conclusion by conditions. It consists of three parts. Through two premises, get the conclusion in the third part. For example,
Premise 1: Mathematic is a compulsory course in school.
Premise 2: You are a student.
Conclusion: You have to learn Mathematic
2. Deduction means a way to infer a particular conclusion from general premises. If the premises are true, then the conclusion is true. Syllogism is a way of deduction.
Premise 1: Metals can conduct electricity.
Premise 2: Iron is metal.
Conclusion: Iron can conduct electricity.
3. Induction means people through part of things have the same characteristics can infer to conclusion that all things have the same characteristics. The premise can support the conclusion, but cannot make sure the conclusion is correct. For example,
Premise: The grass is green.
Conclusion: All the grass is green.
All things are characterized by the same characteristics of some things
4. Abduction means people through the conclusion to infer and get the best explanation. For example,
Truth：Snake needs to hibernate.
Inference: Snake needs to hibernate because Snake is cold-blooded animal.
Conclusion: Snake is cold-blooded animal.
II. Choose an argument from the Opinion/Editorial section of any news source. Deconstruct the argument in simple terms and diagnose its soundness and validity. Be sure to provide a link to the article and cite sources for evidence supporting or refuting the premises.
The argument: The draw of cheap oil affects the development of renewable energy.
Deconstruct: Premise 1: The low oil prices are more attractive than renewable energy.
Premise 2: The government's economy weakens to influence the development of renewable energy.
Conclusion: The effect of the draw of cheap oil to renewable energy is negative.
Link of the news:
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/26/business/energy-environment/climate-deals-first-big-hurdle-the-draw-of-cheap-oil.html?mcubz=3