What role do assumptions play in logical reasoning?

Assumptions play a fundamental role in logical reasoning as they serve as the underlying elements that support the conclusions drawn from an argument. When an argument is constructed, there are often unstated premises or beliefs that must be accepted for the conclusion to logically follow from the stated premises. These assumptions act as the invisible framework of reasoning; without them, the logic connecting premises to conclusion would be weak or nonexistent.

For instance, if an argument states that "all humans are mortal" and concludes that "Socrates is mortal," it presumes the acceptance of the universality of mortality among humans as a fundamental assumption. If this assumption were false, the conclusion could not be reliably reached.

Understanding the assumptions behind an argument helps individuals evaluate its strength and validity. It allows recognition of the gaps in reasoning, thereby enhancing critical thinking skills. This is why identifying and understanding these underlying assumptions is a key component in logical reasoning tasks, such as those found on the LSAT.