Evaluating Arguments
To evaluate an argument, a reader must decide whether it is logical and whether it is based on credible evidence. An idea or argument that seems logical, but is based on a completely faulty premisePremise- the logic that supports a conclusion is a logical fallacyLogical Fallacy- error in reasoning that undermines the logic of an argument.
Example:
People who want gun control don't believe in the Constitution.This is the premise. It is faulty, because many people who favor gun control do value the Constitution, but interpret the 2nd Amendment differently. Obviously, if you don't believe in the Constitution, you're not a good American Therefore, people who favor gun control are not good Americans.This is the conclusion. It is faulty, because it is based on an incorrect premise.
All Chatham County schools require students to wear uniforms.This is the premise. It is not faulty, because it is true and can be proven. Because New Hampstead is a part of Chatham County Public Schools, all NHHS students must wear uniforms.This is the conclusion. It is correct, because it is based on a correct premise.