Inductive generalization, statistical syllogism, and deductive arguments

Inductive Generalization
Argument: 60 per cent of observed cars are manufactured in Japan. Therefore, 60 percent of
all cars are manufactured in Japan.
Inductive generalization is an argument that is characterized by concluding a sample. The individual generalizes to the population (Hardy, Foster,
& Zúñiga, 2015). The argument above can be analyzed based on whether or not the sample is
representative of all cars. If the sample does not represent the entire population, the argument
will not hold. A random sample can be used to validate the conclusions made. With a
random sample, each car has an equal chance of being included.
Statistical Syllogism
Argument: Most old people suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. John is old. Therefore, John
suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.
The argument above uses “most” as the qualifying word. The major premise is in the
form of a generalization. The whole argument attempts to make a conclusion based on the
generalization. For a statistical syllogism to be strong, it must be characterized by a high
percentage (Hardy, Foster, & Zúñiga, 2015). The argument above is therefore a weak
statistical syllogism. The percentage is not high enough to make the claim.
Deductive Arguments
Argument: every car manufactured by Mercedes is expensive. John’s car was manufactured
by Mercedes. Therefore, John’s car is expensive.

Deductive arguments are analyzed based on their validity. A valid deductive argument
is an argument where the truth of the premises guarantees the absolute truth of the conclusion
(Hardy, Foster, & Zúñiga, 2015). In a valid deductive argument, the premises cannot be true
and the conclusion false. The soundness of a deductive argument is done through analyzing
whether the premises are true. In the argument above, it is difficult to tell whether all vehicles
manufactured by Mercedes are expensive. It may also be difficult to tell whether John’s car is
a Mercedes. However, if both premises hold, then it is guaranteed that the conclusion will be
true. If all cars manufactured by Mercedes are expensive and John’s car is a Mercedes, then
John’s car has to be expensive. The implication is that the argument above is valid.

References

Hardy, J., Foster, C., & Zúñiga y Postigo, G. (2015). With good reason: A guide to critical
thinking. Bridgepoint Education.