1. Analogical Arguments An analogical argument draws a conclusion based upon comparison of similar particular instances....

 

Transcribed Image Text:

1. Analogical Arguments An analogical argument draws a conclusion based upon comparison of similar particular instances. These arguments begin by recognizing that one entity shares some number of attributes with another entity. The argument then infers that the first entity is therefore likely to also share some additional attribute that can be presumed to have a relevant relationship to the other shared attributes. Thus, simple analogical arguments have the following basic structure: Analogical Argument Structure Entities A, B, and C each have attributes x, y, z, and r. Entity D also has attributes x, y, and z. Therefore, entity D probably has attribute r as well. In such arguments, if attributes x, y, and z are sufficiently relevant to attribute r, then the inference is usually a strong one. However, if the existence of attributes x, y, and z is unlikely to be relevant to the existence of attribute r, then the argument is usually weak. If an argument's conclusion does not rely upon this type of comparison between at least two similar particular instances, then it is not an analogical argument. Consider the following argumentative passages. For each, determine whether the passage is an analogical argument. Passage A I simply cannot believe that this universe, with all its complexity and splendor, simply evolved out of the mindless workings of nature. It must have been created by a being at least as powerful and splendid as the universe itself. This is one of the reasons I believe there is a God. Passage A an analogical argument. is not is Passage B Jack recommended that I listen to this CD by Luna, and I liked it. Then he recommended this one by Spiritualized, and I liked it, too. Then he gave me this Radiohead CD, which I also liked. Now he's recommending this CD by The Sand Pebbles. I'm sure it is just as enjoyable as the other CDs were. Passage B an analogical argument. Passage C Alleraway Brand allergy medicine does an excellent job of treating my allergy symptoms, but this generic brand is much less expensive. With prices going up for everything else, from food to gasoline, I really need to start saving money whenever possible. Therefore, I should buy this generic brand of allergy medicine. Passage C an analogical argument. Passage D I love intelligent dogs, and working breeds are among the most intelligent breeds of dogs. However, most working breeds are way too large to live comfortably in an apartment. Therefore, I should get a Brussels Griffon, since they are a toy breed that can live quite comfortably in my apartment building, and they tend to make loyal companions. Passage D an analogical argument. 1. Analogical Arguments An analogical argument draws a conclusion based upon comparison of similar particular instances. These arguments begin by recognizing that one entity shares some number of attributes with another entity. The argument then infers that the first entity is therefore likely to also share some additional attribute that can be presumed to have a relevant relationship to the other shared attributes. Thus, simple analogical arguments have the following basic structure: Analogical Argument Structure Entities A, B, and C each have attributes x, y, z, and r. Entity D also has attributes x, y, and z. Therefore, entity D probably has attribute r as well. In such arguments, if attributes x, y, and z are sufficiently relevant to attribute r, then the inference is usually a strong one. However, if the existence of attributes x, y, and z is unlikely to be relevant to the existence of attribute r, then the argument is usually weak. If an argument's conclusion does not rely upon this type of comparison between at least two similar particular instances, then it is not an analogical argument. Consider the following argumentative passages. For each, determine whether the passage is an analogical argument. Passage A I simply cannot believe that this universe, with all its complexity and splendor, simply evolved out of the mindless workings of nature. It must have been created by a being at least as powerful and splendid as the universe itself. This is one of the reasons I believe there is a God. Passage A an analogical argument. is not is Passage B Jack recommended that I listen to this CD by Luna, and I liked it. Then he recommended this one by Spiritualized, and I liked it, too. Then he gave me this Radiohead CD, which I also liked. Now he's recommending this CD by The Sand Pebbles. I'm sure it is just as enjoyable as the other CDs were. Passage B an analogical argument. Passage C Alleraway Brand allergy medicine does an excellent job of treating my allergy symptoms, but this generic brand is much less expensive. With prices going up for everything else, from food to gasoline, I really need to start saving money whenever possible. Therefore, I should buy this generic brand of allergy medicine. Passage C an analogical argument. Passage D I love intelligent dogs, and working breeds are among the most intelligent breeds of dogs. However, most working breeds are way too large to live comfortably in an apartment. Therefore, I should get a Brussels Griffon, since they are a toy breed that can live quite comfortably in my apartment building, and they tend to make loyal companions. Passage D an analogical argument.

Answer rating: 100% (QA)

Required solution Passage A is an analogical argument This is because ... View the full answer