Form of modus ponens – UGC NET Question

Modus ponens is the classic valid form that affirms the antecedent of a conditional. It states that if “if p, then q” is true and p is true, then q must also be true. This structure preserves truth from premises to conclusion. Therefore the argument form described in the stem is called modus ponens.

Option A:
Option A correctly names modus ponens as the rule that moves from “if p then q” and “p” to “q”. It is one of the most frequently used inference forms in deductive reasoning. Hence this option is the correct answer.

Option B:
Option B, modus tollens, involves denying the consequent by arguing from “if p then q” and “not q” to “not p”. This is a different but also valid pattern. Thus modus tollens does not match the form given here.

Option C:
Option C, disjunctive syllogism, reasons from a disjunction and the denial of one disjunct to the affirmation of the other. It uses “either…or” rather than a conditional premise. Therefore it is not the pattern described in the stem.

Option D:
Option D, hypothetical fallacy, is not a standard name for any recognised valid form. It vaguely suggests an error rather than a rule of inference. Consequently hypothetical fallacy is not an acceptable answer.