What does an implied premise refer to in an argument?

An implied premise refers to a claim that, while not explicitly stated in the argument, is essential for the reasoning to hold together logically. In any argument, the premises serve as the foundation upon which the conclusion is built. If one of these premises is not articulated, it can still be crucial for the audience's understanding and the argument’s overall coherence. By recognizing implied premises, one can better analyze the underlying assumptions that support the conclusion and evaluate the strength of the argument.

For example, if someone argues that "We should reduce car use to combat climate change," the implied premise could be that reducing car use will lead to lower emissions. This connection might not be vocalized directly but is essential for the argument to be effective. Understanding this concept is vital in debates, as it allows participants to identify and challenge the foundational beliefs that are often taken for granted, thus fostering a more in-depth discussion.