Final answer:
To determine if an analogical premise is true or acceptable, perform a truth analysis, check for exceptions to principles, counterexamples to conceptual claims, and ensure deductive inferences are valid. Consider alternative arguments and reflect on the persuasiveness and completeness of the evidence provided.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine whether an analogical premise is true or acceptable, it is essential to perform a thorough truth analysis of the premises that support the argument. One way to assess this is by checking empirical evidence for factual accuracy. If the premise is a principle, it is crucial to consider whether any exceptions could undermine the principle. When dealing with a conceptual claim, it is important to think critically about its validity, which often involves considering possible counterexamples.
For deductive inferences, assume the premises to be true and determine if the conclusion logically follows. If there exists a scenario where the premises are true, but the conclusion is still false, the argument is invalid. It is also important to consider whether the premises are relevant to the argument, avoid circular reasoning, ensure they are adequate to support the conclusion, and recognize if alternative arguments may provide equal or greater support.
After evaluating all of these aspects carefully, one should reflect on how persuasive the evidence is on a first reading, the apparent logic of the position, and whether the writer has omitted relevant points. This critical reflection can help decide whether to accept or reject the conclusion of the argument.