Lesson 1: What Is Critical Reasoning? Flashcards
Define critical reasoning.
Critical reasoning can be defined as active, reflective and informed thinking that involves the ability to deliberately and skilfully question, analyse interpret and evaluate ideas and beliefs in the light of reasons or evidence which supports them. (Van den Berg, 2010)
What is the difference between critical reasoning and formal logic?
Formal logic involves the use of logical language or symbols to examine the formal structures of arguments and precise rules are used to test the validity of the arguments, whereas critical reasoning involves using natural language to construct or evaluate arguments.
What are the three critical thinking competencies?
Thinking for yourself.
Informed reasoning.
Critical self-reflection.
Explain what standard form is and how it looks.
Standard form is a form of argument in which the argument is written out in a way that makes the premises and conclusion of the argument explicit. The premises are written in a list form (one line used per premises). The conclusion is written last, with an inference bar (line) above it, to indicate that a conclusion is being drawn.
Name three ways to critically reflect on your own beliefs.
Examine your assumptions about people and the world.
Acknowledge your own biases and prejudices (identify and constructively dismantle).
Be suspicious of dogma (ensure that you have not blindly accepted your beliefs).
What is the difference between an informed opinion and an opinion?
An informed opinion can be substantiated by and is based on facts, whereas a personal opinion is based on your own feelings or thoughts and have no factual basis.
Define rhetoric and explain how it differs from argumentation.
Rhetoric is a verbal or written attempt to persuade someone of something without providing reasons or arguments to do so, but rather using the power of words to persuade. Argumentation involves critical reasoning, and providing reasons or substantiation to persuade someone of something.
