Unit 1 – Critical Thinking Q-Cards

Flashcards covering the key concepts and definitions from Unit 1 of the Critical Thinking course, preparing students for their exam.

What is thinking?

The mental process of forming a belief, opinion, or idea.

What is reasoning?

The mental process of justifying a belief, opinion, or idea (an argument).

What is logic? (process)

Reasoning conducted according to rational principles.

What is logic? (study)

The study of rational principles of justification.

What is critical thinking (short)?

Practicing good reasoning using logic.

What is critical thinking (full)?

The systematic analysis, evaluation, and formulation of beliefs using rational standards.

What must critical thinking be?

Logical, objective, and unbiased.

What is a belief?

Something accepted as true.

What is the difference between thinking and reasoning?

Thinking forms beliefs; reasoning justifies them.

Why is reasoning important?

It supports and defends beliefs with evidence.

What is objectivity?

Basing beliefs on evidence, not personal bias.

What is bias?

A tendency that distorts judgment.

Why avoid bias?

It leads to poor reasoning and false beliefs.

What is the goal of critical thinking?

To form true beliefs and avoid false ones.

What does 'systematic' mean in critical thinking?

Careful, structured evaluation.

What does 'rational standards' mean?

Using logic and evidence to judge beliefs.

Why is critical thinking important in society?

We are constantly exposed to information and claims.

What problem does critical thinking solve?

Information overload (media, ads, social media).

What are we constantly exposed to?

Claims, alleged facts, opinions, and images.

What are the two parts of the course?

Foundations and Applied Critical Thinking.

What happens in Foundations?

Learning concepts and tools of reasoning.

What happens in Applied?

Using reasoning in real-life situations.

What skills will you learn?

Recognizing, analyzing, and evaluating arguments.

Where do we apply critical thinking?

Conversations, debates, media, politics.

Is philosophy the same as critical thinking?

No—critical thinking is a tool used in philosophy.

What disciplines are part of philosophy?

Logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology.

Example: animal research argument conclusion?

There is nothing ethically wrong with the research.

Example: animal research premise?

It saves human lives.

Example: communism argument conclusion?

It should not be taught in universities.

Example: communism premise?

It caused deaths and suppressed rights.

Example: ‘you are with us or terrorists’ is what?

A false dilemma.

What is the first step in analyzing an argument?

Identify the conclusion.

What is the second step?

Identify the premises.

What is the purpose of arguments?

To justify beliefs.

What does it mean to evaluate a belief?

Assess whether it is supported by good reasons.

What is good reasoning?

Reasoning that follows logical and rational standards.

What is bad reasoning?

Reasoning that lacks logic or evidence.

Why must we question claims?

Because not all information is reliable.

What does it mean to be unbiased?

Not influenced by personal opinions or emotions.

What is the connection between logic and truth?

Logic helps determine if reasoning is valid, not necessarily if it is true.