PHL137 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Fluoride, Celebrity Chef, Broth
Document Summary
When evaluating an argument, whether or not it is good depends on its rational core; that is: Over the past weeks we have looked at the rhetorical features of arguments, which although may be persuasive, are not part of the rational core. We will now look at evaluating the rational core itself, through the premises and inferences. One step is to decide whether the premises are acceptable. After the argument is standardised, look at unsupported premises, remembering there is information not included in the standardisation therefore you need to go back to the text as you evaluate the argument. Consider the premises that are not supported in your standardisation and ask yourself what sort of evidence would be needed for each of them. Any unacceptable premises, or any that require more justification should be noted. Remember to apply the principle of charity. Do the premises really support the conclusion. Do the subpremises really support the sub conclusions.
