Decide whether the syllogisms are valid in format (as opposed to using true premises).

SYLLOGISMS: Deductive Reasoning

Remember: There is a difference between asserting that a premise is untrue and asserting that the logic of the argument is faulty. “All dogs can fly. Fido is a dog. Fido can fly.” That is a perfectly valid argument in terms of logic, but this flawless logic is based on an untrue premise. If a person accepts the major and minor premises of an argument, the conclusion follows undeniably by the sheer force of reason. If in an argument, the logic reaches a conclusion that seems absurd, it behooves you to analyze each sentence separately (to see if each premise is true without exception) and then to analyze the structure of the argument (to see if the reasoning of the argument itself is valid). Also be on the lookout for “equivocation,” the use of two different meanings of one word during the process of an argument. APA Format

Directions: Pick 5 of the following syllogisms. For each syllogism:

1. Identify the following:

a. Major premise

b. Minor premise

c. Conclusions

d. Major term

e. Minor term

f. Middle term

2. Decide whether the syllogisms are valid in format (as opposed to using true premises).

3. Explain why the syllogism is valid or invalid. You can use a Venn diagram, transference of

middle terms, or illustrate using circles.

Invalid example: All snakes are cold-blooded. Valid example: All humans are selfish. All snails are cold-blooded. Confucius is a human. All snails are snakes. Confucius is selfish.