-The propositions upon which inference is based

-Or simply, the propositions that are claimed to provide grounds/reasons for the conclusion

-The proposition to which the other propositions, in an argument, are claimed to give support, or for which they are given as reasons

-The end result/theme of the argument

Inference

A process by which one proposition is arrived at and affirmed, on the basis of some other proposition(s)

- Inference is the main process or principle for making valid and accepted arguments

Recognizing Arguments

1. Premises/Conclusion Indicators

 

- Premises Indicators

Since, because, for, as, follows from, as shown by, etc

- Conclusion Indicators

Therefore, hence, so, accordingly, in consequence, as a result, for this reason, thus, etc

- But these indicators are not compulsory for Premises/Conclusion, they can be made without these indicators

2. Arguments in Context

 

Arguments can best be recognized, if they are read/understood in context

Example

“As we send more young men to Iraq to bring order to that country, many of its so called leaders have abandoned their posts. We have given the Iraqis an opportunity to iron out their differences, and they throw it back in our faces. Iraq does not deserve our help”

3. Premises or Conclusion Not in a Declarative Form

 

Example

“I am irked by the new set of coins being issued. While some first ladies have influenced our country, should we bestow this honour on people who are unelected. Whose only credential is having a prominent spouse?”

4. Unstated Proposition

 

Some times parts of the argument are taken for granted, that the reader/listener  would understand it or assumed it.

Example

“If the Opponent of death penalty is incorrect in his belief that the death penalty doesn’t deter, he is responsible for the murder of innocent individuals who would not have been murdered if the death penalty was invoked”