Hello, I have a midterm on Monday and I'm supposed to read an article and answer a few questions, such as finding the hidden assumptions and conclusion as well as finding reasons. I am wondering if s

Identify and express any hidden assumptions underlying each of the following statements (5 points each, 20 points total). As a reminder, a hidden assumption is a thought or belief that forms the basis for a line of reasoning that may not be apparent to all concerned. Here's an example:

Prostitution is immoral; therefore, it should be illegal.

What is being assumed here? 

In order to draw the conclusion that "prostitution should be illegal," you first have to look at the premises or reasons why. The premise in this statement is: "Prostitution is immoral." What is this argument assuming about "immoral things" that allows it to jump from "prostitution is immoral" to therefore it should be illegal?

The hidden premise is this: Anything that is immoral should be illegal.

If anything that is immoral should be illegal, and prostitution is immoral, it therefore follows that prostitution should be illegal, based on the initial premise which was "hidden" (implicit). We express hidden assumptions in argument so that we can examine them critically. Is it true that "all immoral things should be illegal"? I would say, not necessarily, especially considering that we don't all agree on what the boundaries of "morality" are!

Now it's your turn! Express the hidden premises in each of the following statements (5 points each):

1. Harold is a politician, so you have to fact-check every other word that comes out of his mouth. (Hint: what general point is being assumed about politicians here?)

2. No one should care that Kim Kardashian was robbed at gunpoint in Paris; she has plenty of money to replace all the items that were stolen from her.

3. If Brewster Bland is a good family man, he’ll make a good senator.

4. Many celebrities believe that a 35,000-year-old spirit entity known as Ramtha speaks through channeler J.Z. Knight. Therefore, this belief is worthy of respect.