Question

What does Copi suggest is necessary when testing an argument with an exceptive proposition as a premise?

a) A single syllogistic test
b) Two separate tests, depending on the position of the exceptive proposition
c) Ignoring the exceptive proposition
d) Testing only the conclusion

Answer 1

When testing an argument with an exceptive proposition as a premise, Copi recommends conducting two separate tests to ensure the argument's validity is assessed properly.

Step-by-step explanation:

Copi suggests that when testing an argument with an exceptive proposition as a premise, it is necessary to conduct two separate tests depending on the position of the exceptive proposition. This approach ensures a thorough examination of possible exceptions and their implications on the argument's validity. The testing deductive inferences begins by assuming the premises are true, and then it considers whether the conclusion logically follows. When dealing with a potentially exceptive proposition, two scenarios must be considered: one where the exception is present and one where it is not, which will reveal whether the argument holds in both situations.