49.5k views
0 votes
A compound statement that is always true is called a/an:

A) Tautology
B) Contradiction
C) Hypothesis
D) Conclusion

User Cogicero
by
6.8k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

A compound statement that is always true is known as a tautology, part of deductive reasoning. A hypothesis is more similar to a suggestion, while a conclusion comes from deductive inference that ends an argument.

Step-by-step explanation:

A compound statement that is always true is described as a tautology. In the realm of deductive reasoning, such a statement is the result of a logical formulation where, given the premises are true, the conclusion will invariably be true as well. This is seen in a form of argument called disjunctive syllogism, an example of a valid deductive inference. For instance, a universal affirmative statement such as 'All mammals are animals' is a type of tautology because it is universally true.

In the context of hypothesis testing, the closest meaning to 'hypothesis' is 'suggestion' (e), since a hypothesis is an assumptive statement that is subject to verification or falsification through testing or experimentation. Unlike a 'conclusion', which is deduced from given premises and denotes the end of an argument, a hypothesis serves as a starting point for inquiry.

The distinction between the hypotheses and conclusions is paramount in logic and reasoning. The thesis statement plays a crucial role as it encapsulates the central claim, often structured around facts, opinion, and the underlying reasoning, thereby setting the stage for the argument or analysis that follows.

User Ian Overton
by
7.8k points