Principles of Good Argument Quiz

What is the formal definition of an argument according to T. Edward Damer?

• A premise that is irrelevant

• A conclusion supported by reasons

• A statement that presents an opinion

• A claim that contradicts the conclusion

Which principle of a good argument ensures that the reasons provided are relevant to the truth or merit of the conclusion?

• Structure

• Sufficiency

• Relevance

• Acceptability

According to the principle of Acceptability, what type of claim should be rejected by a mature, rational adult?

• A relatively minor claim that seems to be a reasonable assumption

• A claim that contradicts credible evidence or a well-established claim

• A claim that is confirmed by one's own personal experience or observation

• A claim that is a matter of undisputed common knowledge

What does the Sufficiency principle of a good argument emphasize?

• The number of premises provided

• The length of the argument

• The complexity of the conclusion

• The use of rhetorical devices

What does the Rebuttal principle of a good argument require the arguer to do?

• Bring up trivial objections as a side issue

• Effectively rebut or blunt the force of the most serious criticisms against the argument

• Attack the critic instead of the criticism

• Ignore or deny the counterevidence against the position defended

How can an arguer strengthen their argument according to the Acceptability principle?

• Use highly questionable evidence or assumptions

• Substitute less controversial claims for more controversial ones

• Include irrelevant premises to strengthen the argument

• Make absolute claims without any evidence

What should an arguer do to improve the Structure of their argument?

• Use reasons that contradict each other

• Assume the truth of the conclusion without providing reasons

• Make explicit any key assumptions that are not relevant

• Explicitly call out the conclusion and supporting reasons

According to the Relevance principle, when is a premise considered relevant?

• If it is confirmed by one's own personal experience

• If it makes the conclusion more likely to be true

• If it is based on highly questionable assumptions

• If it contradicts credible evidence

What does the Sufficiency principle of a good argument emphasize?

• The length of the argument

• The use of rhetorical devices

• The complexity of the conclusion

• The number of premises provided

How can an arguer strengthen their argument according to the Acceptability principle?

• Substitute less controversial claims for more controversial ones

• Use highly questionable evidence or assumptions

• Make absolute claims without any evidence

• Include irrelevant premises to strengthen the argument