Repairing an Argument

When an argument is defective we can repair the argument by adding a premise or conclusion that seems to have been assumed by the person giving the argument. By adding facts or additional information to repair the argument, we follow the Principle of Rational Discussion. Therefore we only add a premise if it makes the argument stronger and is more plausible than the conclusion.

Michael is a diabetic and requires a daily insulin injection. Michael will have to take insulin for the rest of his life.  We can add a premise that provides reasoning for Michael’s condition and insulin requirement.  He has Type 1 diabetes and his body unable to produce insulin in the quantities needed to maintain a normal blood glucose level. By adding this premise, the argument becomes valid, because the premise is plausible. By explaining what type of diabetes Michael has we are able to differentiate between forms of diabetes that may be reversible by lifestyle change and diet and Michael’s type that is due to genetic predisposition.