When you are building an argument for an issue that is significant to you, do you think it is more important to be valid or sound? Explain your answer.
A sound argument is more important.
http://www.wisegeek.com/in-logic-what-are-sound-and-valid-arguments.htm
http://www.iep.utm.edu/val-snd/
Why is a sound argument more important then a vaild one?
When building an argument for an issue that is significant to you, it is important to strive for both validity and soundness. Validity refers to the logical structure of an argument, ensuring that the conclusion follows logically from the premises. Soundness, on the other hand, adds the element of truth to the argument by making sure that the premises are not only logically connected but also true.
Both validity and soundness are crucial for a well-constructed and convincing argument. Here's why:
1. Validity: A valid argument ensures that the conclusion logically follows from the premises. If an argument is valid, it means that the structure of the argument is sound, and there are no logical fallacies or errors. By focusing on validity, you ensure that your argument is coherent and logically consistent.
To determine the validity of an argument, you can use deductive reasoning. This involves analyzing the logical form of the argument to see if the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises. If it does, the argument is valid; if not, the argument is invalid.
2. Soundness: While validity focuses on the logical structure, soundness goes a step further by considering the truth of the premises. Even if an argument is valid, it can still be unsound if the premises are not true or if they lack credibility.
To establish the soundness of an argument, you need to ensure that each premise is verifiable or well-supported by evidence. Soundness adds strength and credibility to your argument, making it more persuasive and compelling.
So, when building an argument for an issue significant to you, it is essential to strive for both validity and soundness. You must ensure that your argument is logically valid, following a coherent structure, and that the premises are true and supported by evidence. By combining both elements, your argument becomes more robust, persuasive, and likely to convince others of the significance of your chosen issue.