Lesson 1

Chapter 1

How is critical reasoning defined

critical reasoning is 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 support them”

What are the key elements of critical reasoning?

• Active thinking: This suggests an engagement with the material rather than passive acceptance.

• Reflective thinking: This implies considering and pondering ideas and beliefs.

• Informed thinking: This indicates that reasoning should be based on knowledge and evidence.

• Deliberate and skillful questioning: This highlights the intentional and proficient nature of the inquiry.

• Analysis, interpretation, and evaluation of ideas and beliefs: These are the core cognitive processes involved in critical reasoning

The terms "critical reasoning", "critical thinking", and "clear thinking" are used interchangeably. What does this suggest about the relationship between these concepts?

The interchangeable use of "critical reasoning", "critical thinking", and "clear thinking" in the study guide suggests that these terms are considered to be synonymous2 . They all refer to the same fundamental ability to think in a reasoned, evaluative, and self-reflective manner. Therefore, when the guide discusses critical reasoning, the principles and competencies discussed also apply to critical thinking and clear thinking.

The distinction between "critical reasoning" and "formal logic". is briefly introduced in your study guide. According to the text, what is the relationship between "critical reasoning" and "informal logic", and how do these differ from "formal logic"?

According to the study guide, the terms "critical reasoning" and "informal logic" can be used interchangeably; informal logic is presented as another term for critical reasoning "Formal logic", however, is described as something different

What are these three core competencies of critical, and what does each entail?

Critical reasoning is thinking for yourself: This involves having a critical attitude of reflecting on how we think in various areas of our lives, questioning the world, and engaging critically with possibilities and alternatives. It means not blindly accepting dogma or authority without question

Critical reasoning is informed reasoning: This competency implies that our reasoning and opinions should be substantiated or based on fact, rather than mere personal opinion. An informed opinion is supported by reasons for the soundness or acceptability of the claims we make.

Critical reasoning is critical self-reflection: This involves the ability to reflect on one's own positions, including examining assumptions, acknowledging biases/prejudices, and being suspicious of dogma. It also entails questioning one's own beliefs, preconceived ideas, and biases

What is "informed reasoning"

"Informed reasoning" in critical reasoning means having opinions that can be substantiated or are based on fact, rather than mere personal opinion

How does informed reasoning differ from simply having an opinion?

An informed opinion is supported by reasons for the soundness or acceptability of the claims we make. The key difference is that informed reasoning is grounded in evidence and logical support, whereas a simple opinion may lack such foundation.

What does "thinking for yourself" as a critical reasoning competence really mean?

"Thinking for yourself" in critical reasoning means having a critical attitude of reflecting on how we think and engaging critically with the possibilities and alternatives that the world offers. It is the opposite of accepting dogma

what does the key aspects of "critical self-reflection" include

•Examining assumptions: This involves questioning the things we take for granted.

•Acknowledging biases/prejudices: This aspect speaks about critically ananlyzing your own opinion and identifying if your opinion could be subjective to some sort of bias or prejudice.

•Being suspicious of dogma: This involves being wary of "unquestioned information – information that is embraced without the intervention of active thought or criticism"

Why is it crucial for critical thinkers to examine their assumptions?

It is crucial for critical thinkers to examine their assumptions because assumptions can significantly influence our understanding and judgments

What is "dogma"?

"Dogma" is defined as "unquestioned information – information that is embraced without the intervention of active thought or criticism"

Another definition provided is "An opinion, a belief; a tenet or doctrine authoritatively laid down, especially by a church or sect. Also: an imperious or arrogant declaration of opinion"

why should critical thinkers be "suspicious of dogma"?

Critical thinkers should be "suspicious of dogma" because dogmatic beliefs are often "given" to us without critical examination and can be incorrect or damaging. Being suspicious of dogma does not mean discarding every taught belief but rather carefully examining them to ensure they have not been blindly accepted. This allows for a more reasoned and thoughtful acceptance or rejection of ideas.

What is the purpose of presenting arguments in "standard form" as introduced in this section?

The "note about 'standard form'" introduces a way of structuring arguments by clearly separating the premises (reasons) and the conclusion (the point being argued for). The purpose of standard form is to clearly present the logical structure of an argument, making it easier to identify the premises and the conclusion and to understand how the premises are intended to support the conclusion.

Give the correct format for standard form

Here is the example provided in the source:

P1: The barista has 30 years’ experience.

P2: Their beans are imported from South America.

______________________________

C: The coffee shop on the corner has the best coffee in Tshwane.

In this format:

•'P1' indicates the first premise.

•'P2' indicates the second premise.

•The line represents the inference bar, indicating that a conclusion is about to be drawn.

•'C' indicates the conclusion of the argument.