+Theme CXVI.+—Choose one side of a proposition. Name the probable points on the other side and write out a refutation of them.
+Theme CXVII.+—State a proposition and write the direct argument.
+Theme CXVIII.+—Exchange theme CXVII for one written by a classmate and write the refutation of the arguments in the theme you receive.
(Theme CXVII and the corresponding Theme CXVIII should be read before the class.)
SUMMARY
1. Argument is that form of discourse which attempts to prove the truth of a proposition.
2. Inductive reasoning is that process by which from many individual cases we establish the probable truth of a general proposition.
3. The establishing of a general truth by induction requires—
a. That there be a large number of facts, circumstances, or specific
instances supporting it.
b. That these facts be true.
c. That they be pertinent.
d. That there be no facts proving the truth of the contrary
proposition.
4. Deductive reasoning is that process which attempts to prove the truth of a specific proposition by showing that a general theory applies to it.
5. The establishing of the truth of a specific proposition by deductive
reasoning requires—
a. A major premise that makes an affirmation about all the members
of a class.
b. A minor premise that states that the individual under consideration
belongs to the class named.
c. A conclusion that states that the affirmation made about the class
applies to the individual. These three statements constitute a
syllogism.