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4.6: Using Paraphrases to Reconstruct Arguments

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    214352
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    Using Paraphrases to Reconstruct Arguments

    Summary: Paraphrasing premises and conclusions is crucial for constructing arguments in standard form. This process enhances clarity and ensures that the essence of the argument is captured accurately. There can be multiple valid paraphrases, each offering a different perspective on the argument's logic.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Understand the importance of paraphrasing premises and conclusions for constructing arguments.
    • Learn to create paraphrases that accurately capture the essence of an argument.
    • Recognize that there can be multiple valid ways to paraphrase an argument.

    Paraphrasing for Clarity:

    • Paraphrasing involves using different words to express the same idea in a clearer manner.
    • It helps in constructing arguments in standard form while ensuring clarity and accuracy.
    • Mastery of English is essential for effective paraphrasing.

    Multiple Valid Paraphrases:

    • There can be several valid paraphrases of premises and conclusions.
    • Each paraphrase offers a different perspective on the argument's logic.
    • The choice of paraphrase depends on clarity and accuracy.

    Constructing Standard Form Arguments:

    • Paraphrased premises and conclusions are organized into standard form.
    • The structure of the argument is maintained while ensuring clarity.
    • Dependencies between premises and conclusions are indicated.

    Practice: Reconstruct the following arguments in standard form using paraphrased premises and conclusions.

    1. Conclusion: The fact that Jeremy’s prints were on the gun that killed Tim and the gun was registered to Jeremy doesn’t mean that Jeremy killed Tim. Paraphrased Premises:
      1. Jeremy’s prints would be expected on a gun registered to him.
      2. Someone could have stolen Jeremy’s gun and used it to kill Tim. Standard Form:
      3. Jeremy’s prints would be expected on a gun registered to him.
      4. Someone could have stolen Jeremy’s gun and used it to kill Tim.
      5. Therefore, the fact that Jeremy’s prints were on the gun that killed Tim and the gun was registered to Jeremy doesn’t mean that Jeremy killed Tim. (from 1-2)
    2. Conclusion: We do not know that Jeremy killed Tim. Paraphrased Premises:
      1. Tim was killed by a gun registered to Jeremy with Jeremy’s prints.
      2. It is possible that Jeremy’s gun was stolen.
      3. If Jeremy’s gun was stolen, Jeremy could not have killed Tim. Standard Form:
      4. Tim was killed by a gun registered to Jeremy with Jeremy’s prints.
      5. It is possible that Jeremy’s gun was stolen.
      6. If Jeremy’s gun was stolen, Jeremy could not have killed Tim.
      7. Therefore, we do not know that Jeremy killed Tim. (from 1-3)

    4.6: Using Paraphrases to Reconstruct Arguments is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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