Q16:
Historian: Newtondeveloped mathematical concepts and techniques that are fundamental to moderncalculus. Leibniz developed closelyanalogous concepts and techniques. Ithas traditionally been thought that these discoveries were independent. Researchers have, however, recentlydiscovered notes of Leibniz’ that discuss one of Newton’s books on mathematics. Several scholars have argued that since thebook includes a presentation of Newton’scalculus concepts and techniques, and since the notes were written beforeLeibniz’ own development of calculus concepts and techniques, it isvirtually certain that the traditional view is false. A more cautious conclusion than this iscalled for, however. Leibniz’ notesare limited to early sections of Newton’s book,sections that precede the ones in which Newton’scalculus concepts and techniques are presented.
In the historian’s reasoning, the twoboldfaced portions play which of the following roles?
- The first provides evidence in support of the overall position that the historian defends; the second is evidence that has been used to support an opposing position.
- The first provides evidence in support of the overall position that the historian defends; the second is that position.
- The first provides evidence in support of an intermediate conclusion that is drawn to provide support for the overall position that the historian defends; the second provides evidence against that intermediate conclusion.
- The first is evidence that has been used to support a conclusion that the historian criticizes; the second is evidence offered in support of the historian’s own position.
- The first is evidence that has been used to support a conclusion that the historian criticizes; the second is further information that substantiates that evidence.
