Post reading, “Ethics of Belief,” a story of WK Clifford’s relationship with an old boat, I have encountered multiple philosophical topics. As we are focusing on arguments, I came across a simple, yet telling argument that begins the short read. In standard form:
- The ship has been through many previous voyages.
- The ship has weathered so many storms.
- ”Idle to suppose she would not come home safely from this trip also” (Clifford). Though the boat is old, it is trustworthy in Clifford’s eye.
The story begins discussing the ship’s trustworthiness and continues to try Clifford’s trustworthiness and honesty. He knew sending the crew on a treacherous trip could have bad outcomes, yet he chose to put his faith in the previous argument. The argument itself is an inductive argument as it uses words such as “suppose.” It is a valid argument, yet not entirely sound. There are other ways the argument can turn and other outcomes, therefore it’s not sound.
Within WK Clifford’s read, there are a couple fallacies. One fallacy, “complex question,” is present. The story introduces Clifford’s assumption without concrete knowledge of the boat’s ability to go on the mission and make it home.
this is my blog 