False Premise: When Arguments Are Built on Bad Foundations - Effectiviology

• An explicit premise is when a premise is mentioned directly as part of an argument.
• An implicit premise means that the premise is hinted at and used as part of the argument.

Someone might choose to rely on a particular implicit premise because it is evident to all participants. Or, someone might decide to rely on an implicit false premise while giving a speech because it will be harder for listeners to notice problems with it.

When you respond to the use of false premises, you should generally call them out as false, explain why they're false, and how them being false invalidates the argument.

• False premises can be implicit rather than explicit.
• It can also be helpful to ask the person who relied on the false premise to support it.
• However, remember that a false premise that makes an argument logically unsound doesn't mean its conclusion is wrong.

• Ensure that you're aware of all the premises your argument is based on and that you know that your premises are true.
• You can engage in self-distancing by treating your arguments as if they're presented by someone else. This can help you rationally consider your views.
• If you make an argument, the proof is on you to support your premises.
• Learn about common fallacies associated with false premises. Then you are more sure to avoid them.