Assumption and Its Examples for CLAT - Practice Questions & MCQ

Understanding Assumptions:

• In critical reasoning, an assumption is an implicit or unstated belief that serves as the foundation for an argument. 
• It's the underlying premise upon which the argument is built. 
• Identifying assumptions is crucial because they can significantly impact the validity of an argument.

Components of Assumptions:

Unstated Beliefs:

• Assumptions are typically not explicitly stated within an argument. Instead, they are implied and must be inferred by the reader.

Critical for Argument's Validity: 

• Assumptions are essential for the argument to hold. If an assumption is false or questionable, it can weaken or invalidate the argument.

Vary in Degree:

• Assumptions can range from simple and obvious beliefs to more complex and subtle ones. Some assumptions are easy to spot, while others require deeper analysis.

Examples:
Let's explore detailed examples to illustrate how assumptions work:

Example 1:

• Argument: "We should invest in expanding the city's public transportation system to reduce traffic congestion."
• Assumption: The assumption is that an improved public transportation system will reduce the number of cars on the road.
• Explanation: The argument is built on the assumption that investing in public transportation will lead to reduced car usage, which, in turn, reduces traffic congestion. This underlying belief is crucial for the argument's validity.

Example 2:

• Argument: "Hiring more teachers will improve the quality of education in our schools."
• Assumption: The assumption is that the quality of education depends significantly on the number of teachers.
• Explanation: The argument assumes that increasing the number of teachers will directly contribute to improving the quality of education. If this assumption is false, the argument's validity is in question.

Example 3:

• Argument: "The government should increase taxes on high-income earners to fund social welfare programs."
• Assumption: The assumption is that high-income earners can bear the burden of increased taxes without significant negative consequences.
• Explanation: The argument assumes that taxing high-income earners more will not lead to adverse economic effects, such as reduced investment or tax evasion.

Strategies for Identifying Assumptions 

• Examine the Gap: Look for gaps in the argument where the conclusion seems to jump from premises without explicitly stating the connections. These gaps often indicate underlying assumptions.
• Ask "What Must Be True?": Consider what must be true for the argument to be valid. The assumptions are often the answers to this question.
• Identify the Weakest Link: Assumptions are often the weakest points in an argument. They are vulnerable to being challenged.
• Check for Unstated Premises: Look for premises that are not explicitly mentioned but are necessary for the argument's logic to hold.
• Consider Alternative Assumptions: Think about different assumptions that could lead to alternative conclusions. This can help you explore the validity of the argument further.

Conclusion 

• By mastering the skill of identifying assumptions brcomrs better at critically evaluating arguments and recognizing the implicit beliefs that underpin them. 
• This is a valuable skill for decision-making in various aspects of life.