Framings: Reasoning

Question 1

Purpose of “argument” with someone

Answer 1

• immediately flipping someone’s opinion is very rare.
• the aim of your arguments should be (a) truth seeking; and (b) long term scale tipping.

Question 2

When receiving arguments for positions

Answer 2

1. Critical thinking is essential
2. Reading without critical thinking is like downloading data onto a computer without an antivirus: you are going to download dangerous crap.
3. Critical thinking enhances understanding and memory.

Question 3

When you get the feeling something is a bad idea / wrong

Answer 3

1. You have great instincts: trust them!
2. True confidence is trusting your reasoning.
3. Confidence won’t turn a duck into a horse.

Question 4

When “looping” (hopeless tasks)

Answer 4

1. One thorough attempt (of one strategy)
2. Then action a different strategy
3. Repetition won’t turn a duck into a horse