Phil. 103: Introduction to Logic
Test 1: The Structure of Arguments
Spring, 2006 c
°2006 GFDL
1 Diagramming Arguments
Directions:
First, indicate whether the passages quoted below are arguments or
not. If the passage is not an argument, tell why it is not. Second,
only if the passage is an argument, diagram the structure of the ar-
gument by referring to the numbered statements using conventional
diagramming symbols. (40 points)
1. (1) The Roman Empire collapsed because (2) it lacked the spirit of liber-
alism and free enterprise.
2. (1) The earth cannot be the center of the universe (2) as planets are seen
at vastly different distances from earth at different times of the year.
3. (1) There is probably gold in Abbeville County because (2) Ranson’s Gems
and Minerals of America lists this area as a place to dig for gold.
4. (1) I know that God exists because (2) the world is so well ordered by
scientific law, and (3) this order cannot be due to chance alone.
