Analyzing Deductive and Inductive Arguments in To Kill a Mockingbird
Film Background: Gregory Peck plays defense attorney, Atticus Finch, in the film To Kill a Mockingbird. The story is about a young man accused of rape. Toward the end of the trial, Atticus Finch is giving his summation to the jury. He must be careful not to alienate the members of the jury, whom he regards as potentially biased against the defendant because of his race. Finch first argues the prosecution has not proved a crime was actually committed, then claims the accused, Tom Robinson, could not physically have done what the prosecution claims.
Finch, believing he must do more than make claims and logical arguments establishing reasonable doubt, addresses a key question: Why would the young woman accuser have lied about being raped by the accused, Tom Robinson?
Finch says he has pity for the victim, then argues by accusing Tom Robinson, the victim was attempting to rid herself of her own guilt. The defense attempts to challenge the prejudicial assumption races other than Caucasian cannot be trusted.
