Phil. 103: Introduction to Logic
Class Exercise: Diagramming Arguments
Directions: For each of the following paired statements, (1) state the fact at issue
as a question phrased in neutral language, (2) state whether or not there is a
disagreement in belief or attitude or both, and (3) tell in general the preferred
method for resolving the dispute.
1. a. Richard Murphy, CEO of the Tri-Magma Corporation, animatedly dis-
cussed the future of the company with an alacrity seldom seen in today’s
economic climate.
b. CEO Murphy chattered on and on with grossly unrealistic expectations
about Tri-Magma’s prospects in these difficult times.
(1) Did Richard Murphy talk about the future prospects of Tri-Magma
Corporation? (2) aand bagree in belief toward that issue but
disagree in attitude. (3) The method of resolution would be to
use some form of rhetoric and persuasion.
2. a. Susan Donnelly. the film critic, can be relied upon as an independent
reviewer who ceaselessly offers her opinions with reservation.
b. I don’t know why Susan Donnelly, the movie commentator, is so
disagreeable—she always contradicts the media’s other film critics.
(1) Does the critic Susan Donnelly think for herself? (2) aand
bagree in belief toward that issue but disagree in attitude.
(3) The method of resolution would be to use some form of rhetoric
and persuasion.
3. a. John Webster claimed he would ace the GRE; in fact, the score he
achieved was amazingly only five points below what he predicted.
b. Yeah, well, Webster failed to meet his expectation. His prediction was
too high; he should have studied more.
(1) Did John Webster obtain the score on the GRE he predicted?
(2) aand bagree in belief toward that issue but disagree in
