What kind of conclusion follows from a deductive argument?

What kind of conclusion follows from a deductive argument?

• A. Definitive conclusion
• B. Probable conclusion
• C. Necessary conclusion
• D. Hypothetical conclusion

Answer: (C)

A deductive argument aims to provide conclusive support for its conclusion. When the premises of a deductive argument are true, the conclusion must also be true; this relationship ensures that the conclusion is not merely likely or probable, but necessary. In other words, the structure of a deductive argument guarantees that if the premises are accepted as true, the conclusion logically follows without exception. This intrinsic quality sets deductive reasoning apart from inductive reasoning, where conclusions are based on probabilities rather than certainties. Given this understanding, the correct answer reflects the certainty that arises from a deductive argument's premises leading to a conclusion that must also hold true, thereby reinforcing the notion of a necessary conclusion.

A deductive argument aims to provide conclusive support for its conclusion. When the premises of a deductive argument are true, the conclusion must also be true; this relationship ensures that the conclusion is not merely likely or probable, but necessary. In other words, the structure of a deductive argument guarantees that if the premises are accepted as true, the conclusion logically follows without exception. This intrinsic quality sets deductive reasoning apart from inductive reasoning, where conclusions are based on probabilities rather than certainties.

Given this understanding, the correct answer reflects the certainty that arises from a deductive argument's premises leading to a conclusion that must also hold true, thereby reinforcing the notion of a necessary conclusion.