Prior to answering this week’s discussion, make sure you have completed the readings and can spend time fully examining the “Buying a Car” scenario.

In the car buying scenario, just like in real life, you were presented with an argument for making a different purchase than what you had originally intended. Think of a time recently where you were presented with an argument that was intended to change your opinion on something. Using that event, complete the following:

1. Present the argument in premise-conclusion form.  
2. Identify whether or not it was inductive or deductive and evaluate it for quality. Be sure to speak in terms of valid/sound for deductive arguments and strong/weak for inductive arguments. Note that last week you were merely asked to present whether or not you found the argument convincing. This week you are being asked to use your new knowledge to evaluate the arguments based on validity, soundness, and strength.
3. Explain whether or not you were convinced by the argument.  
4. Explain whether you were correct in your judgment of the argument.

Use the “Steps for Evaluating an Argument” template to help you structure your response. After you have completed the argument template, you will then be able to use that template to write out a response in which you cover all the elements that were included in the argument template.

You must post to this discussion on at least four separate days of the week and your posts must total at least 600 words as you address the questions noted above. Your first post must be completed by Day 3 (Thursday) and the remainder of your posts must be completed by Day 7 (Monday).  You must answer all aspects of the prompt at some point during the week.  Also, be sure to reply to your classmates and instructor.  Try to attempt to take the conversation further by examining their claims or arguments in more depth or responding to the posts that they make to you.  Keep the discussion on target and try to analyze things in as much detail as you can.

Guided Response: Read the reflections of several of your classmates. Do you agree with their identification (inductive/deductive) and evaluation (valid/sound and weak/strong)? What made the argument either convincing or unconvincing?

For further instruction about how to address discussion prompts in the new format, please view the key terms and Discussion Videos visible on the right in Week 1 Discussion 1.