Critical Thinking - 1.3 Making Inferences

What is an Inference?

A conclusion based on carefully evaluated evidence, reasoning, and context.

What is the 4-step process to making an inference?

1. Gathering evidence

2. Apply knowledge

3. Consider context

4. Draw a conclusion

What are predictions?

Forecasts that something will happen in the future

What are the logical reasoning approaches used in making predictions? (4)

1. DEDUCTIVE REASONING

   • Conclusion is reached through statements moving from general principles to specific cases

   • If premises are true, conclusion is true

2. INDUCTIVE REASONING

   • Conclusion reach based on pattern observed in limited number of specific cases

   • Involves making generalizations from observations

3. ABDUCTIVE REASONING

   • Explanation formulated to explain set of observations or facts

   • Involves educated guesses or inferences

4. REASONING BY ANALOGY

   • Similarities between 2+ situations used to infer they are similar

Why can assumptions cause harm?

1. Discrimination

   • Ethnic, racial, and gender stereotypes

   • Lead to prejudice and unfair treatment

2. Misdirected Action

   • Lead people to wrong conclusion

3. Hindered progress

   • Assumptions can restrict innovation, creativity, and progress

How can we avoid making assumptions?

1. Seek verification

   • Ask questions to gather accurate information

2. Gather evidence

3. Conduct research

4. Suspend judgment

   • Avoid jumping to conclusions

5. Practice active curiosity

6. Seek multiple perspectives

   • To avoid biased assumptions

7. Stay aware of biases

   • Recognize and challenge preconceptions.

When encountering online media, what features should alert readers potential assumptions and bias?

1. Sensational headlines

   • Flashy headlines are meant to catch attention and exaggerate facts

2. Psychological tricks

   • Used by salespeople

3. Unreliable sources

What does it mean to prioritize and what are some strategies for doing so?

• Prioritize means to determine the order of dealing with tasks according to their importance

• Important and Urgent tasks: do right away

• Important but Not Urgent: Decide when to do these tasks

• Urgent but Not Important: Delegate if task is possible

• Not Urgent or Important: Set aside and do later

What is time management?

Effectively managing and organizing one’s time to enhance productivity and achieve goals.

What are some strategies for time management?

1. Set a time limit to complete a task.

2. Take a break between tasks.

3. Organize yourself.

4. Remove nonessential tasks/activities.

5. Plan ahead.