An argument is a statement that tries to convince yourself and others that a conclusion is true. However, it is important to note that a strong argument is different from a valid one.
A strong argument is one that can be true or false and makes others believe in the claim because of the extensive information given. An example of a strong argument can be: As an infant, I was exposed to secondhand smoke. Soon after, doctors told me I had Asthma. Secondhand smoke can cause lung problems. This is a strong argument because I used a personal experience to back up my claim. Instead of using a generic premise, I presented real evidence to show a cause and affect relationship between smoking and lung problems.
A valid argument is primarily factual to show that the premise and conclusion are true. A valid argument is less persuasive than a strong argument. An example of a valid argument can be: Smoking can cause lung cancer. Therefore, a smoker can get lung cancer. Not all smokers get lung cancer, but there is a high-risk that they will. It is valid not only because it is true, but also because it begs the question too. It does not give any background knowledge, evidence, or any kind of elaboration to convince the audience how strong the argument is.
I enjoy your examples for valid and strong arguments. You explained both valid and strong arguments very well. I agree with your strong argument. Since you have a personal experience, you have a hard fact to support your argument, which makes the argument strong. It is true that smokers affected you and you have asthma now. The valid argument is pretty good as well because not all smokers have lung cancer. We are able to prove that this argument is not true because there are people in this world that does smoke and die without ever having cancer. It is an argument that has a lot of loopholes in it for someone to bring it down. All in all it is a good example and I like it.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the feedback:).
ReplyDeleteI like your examples of what strong and valid arguments are. The examples were very clear and understandable. I agree a lot with Cyyntthhia, I think that your strong argument is exceptionally strong because of your personal experience. I also like your example of a valid argument. The use of the word “can” allows the argument to be more flexible. With the word “can” you are saying that there is a possibility of the smoker getting lung cancer, but that there is also a chance that they might not. The example still works because the premise and conclusion are still both true. Good job!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ralph Lauren:)! It was hard for me to come up with a clear example, so I'm glad it came out strongly.
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