Definition for a fortiori
A fortiori is a Latin phrase meaning "with even stronger reason," which is used in legal arguments to suggest that if something is true in one situation, it is even more likely to be true in another situation that is more significant or severe.
Inclusive Elements
This term includes reasoning by analogy, where an established fact or a stronger case implies the truth of a similar or related weaker case. It is used to reinforce an argument presumed to be more evident or more convincing.
Exclusive Elements
It excludes arguments based purely on empirical data without logical connection, personal opinions, or instances where the comparative severity or significance of situations does not apply.
Exceptions and Qualifications
Exceptions to a fortiori arguments may arise in cases where the analogy does not hold due to significant differences in context or nature between the two cases being compared. Qualifications involve the necessity for the foundational premise to be universally accepted or proven for the argument to hold.
Other Terms related to a fortiori
Modus tollens, a principle of logic, is used to form a valid argument.