LibraryIdentifying Assumptions and Flaws in Arguments

Identifying Assumptions and Flaws in Arguments

Learn about Identifying Assumptions and Flaws in Arguments as part of GRE Preparation - Graduate Record Examination

Mastering Assumptions and Flaws in Arguments for GRE Analytical Writing

The GRE Analytical Writing section tests your ability to construct well-reasoned arguments and critically evaluate those of others. A key skill for success is the ability to identify the underlying assumptions and logical flaws within an argument. This module will equip you with the tools to dissect arguments effectively.

Understanding Assumptions

An assumption is an unstated premise that the author of an argument takes for granted. It's something they believe to be true, even if they don't explicitly say it, in order for their conclusion to logically follow from their evidence. Identifying assumptions is crucial because if an assumption is false, the entire argument can be weakened or invalidated.

What is an assumption in the context of an argument?

An unstated premise that the author believes to be true to support their conclusion.

Common Types of Assumptions

Assumption TypeDescriptionExample
Causal AssumptionsAssuming that one event caused another, without sufficient evidence.Argument: 'Since the new traffic light was installed, accidents have decreased. Therefore, the traffic light caused the decrease.'
Analogical AssumptionsAssuming that because two things are similar in some ways, they are also similar in the way relevant to the argument.Argument: 'This new software worked well for Company X, so it will work well for our company.'
Generalization AssumptionsAssuming that a sample is representative of a larger population.Argument: 'I met two people from that town, and they were both rude. Therefore, everyone from that town is rude.'
Statistical AssumptionsMisinterpreting or misapplying statistical information.Argument: 'The average salary in this city is $50,000, so everyone here earns around that amount.'

Identifying Logical Flaws

Logical flaws, also known as fallacies, are errors in reasoning that undermine the validity of an argument. They are often the result of faulty assumptions or misinterpretations of evidence. Recognizing these flaws is essential for both dissecting others' arguments and constructing your own sound ones.

When analyzing an argument, ask yourself: 'What is the author not saying?' and 'What must the author believe to be true for this conclusion to hold?' This often leads you to the assumptions and potential flaws.

Strategies for Identifying Assumptions and Flaws

To excel at identifying assumptions and flaws, practice these strategies:

  1. Read Actively: Don't just skim. Understand the conclusion and the evidence presented.
  2. Ask 'Why?': For every piece of evidence, ask why the author believes it supports the conclusion. The answer often reveals an assumption.
  3. Look for Gaps: Where is the logical leap between evidence and conclusion? This gap is usually filled by an assumption.
  4. Consider Counter-Arguments: What if the assumption is false? What alternative explanations exist for the evidence?
  5. Recognize Common Fallacies: Familiarize yourself with the typical logical errors.

Visualizing the structure of an argument can be incredibly helpful. Imagine an argument as a series of interconnected nodes. The conclusion is the central node. The evidence nodes feed into it. Assumptions are the invisible links or foundational elements that support these connections. Flaws are breaks or misalignments in these links or foundations. For example, a causal assumption might be represented as a direct arrow from cause to effect, while a more nuanced argument might require a more complex network. Identifying flaws means spotting where these arrows are misplaced, missing, or where the foundational supports are weak.

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What is one active strategy to help identify assumptions in an argument?

Ask 'Why?' for each piece of evidence to understand how it supports the conclusion.

Applying to GRE Analytical Writing Tasks

In the GRE Issue Task, you'll be presented with a statement and asked to discuss your perspective. While you're not directly analyzing someone else's argument, understanding assumptions and flaws helps you build a more robust and nuanced argument of your own. In the GRE Argument Task, you are explicitly asked to critique an argument. Your essay should focus on identifying and explaining the assumptions and flaws in the provided text, and suggesting how the argument could be improved.

For the GRE Argument Task, your essay should not just list flaws, but explain why they are flaws and how they weaken the argument. Offer specific suggestions for improvement.

Learning Resources

GRE Analytical Writing: Argument Essay(documentation)

Official GRE guide from ETS explaining the Argument Task, including what skills are assessed and how to approach it.

Identifying Assumptions in Arguments(blog)

A clear explanation of what assumptions are and how to identify them in various types of arguments, with examples.

Logical Fallacies Explained(documentation)

A visually engaging and easy-to-understand guide to common logical fallacies, perfect for quick reference.

GRE Argument Essay: How to Identify Flaws(blog)

This blog post provides practical strategies and common flaws to look for when analyzing GRE Argument essays.

Critical Thinking: Assumptions and Arguments(video)

A lecture from a Coursera course that delves into the relationship between assumptions and the construction of arguments.

The Power of Critical Thinking(documentation)

While a textbook, this link points to a widely recognized resource for developing critical thinking skills, including argument analysis.

GRE Analytical Writing: Issue Essay(documentation)

Official GRE guide from ETS explaining the Issue Task, emphasizing the need for well-supported and reasoned arguments.

How to Spot Logical Fallacies(video)

A concise and informative YouTube video that breaks down several common logical fallacies with clear examples.

Critical Thinking Skills for GRE(blog)

Kaplan's resource on critical thinking for the GRE, often touching upon argument analysis and logical reasoning.

Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: Fallacies(wikipedia)

A comprehensive academic overview of the philosophical study of fallacies, offering deep insights into their nature and classification.