X Y

“Similarities”

Z=“Target Property”

The similarities between the main term and the analogous term (that is, the properties F, G, and H mentioned in the argument that both have) are called “similarities”. The property (Z) mentioned in the conclusion is called “target property”

It is easy to see that the form of the argument by analogy allows substitution instances with true premises and false conclusions (substitution instances of the form of the argument are concrete arguments). In other words, this form is not the form of a deductively correct argument. In fact, arguments of this form can be downright absurd. For example:[Premise 1]: Both Jr John and John have heads, hands, and feet.

[Conclusion 1]: Therefore, Jr John is similar to John.

[Premise 2]: Jr John is Rey's husband.

[Conclusion 2]: Therefore, John is Rey's husband.