“Critical thinking is the systematic evaluation or formulation of beliefs, or statements, by rational standards.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 1: Introduction to Critical Thinking
MeaningThis is a foundational definition presented early in the book, establishing what critical thinking entails. It emphasizes the systematic and rational approach to assessing or constructing beliefs, highlighting the core objective of the entire text.
“An argument is a group of statements, one or more of which (the premises) are claimed to provide support for, or reasons to believe, one of the others (the conclusion).”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 2: The Basics of Argument
MeaningThis essential definition clarifies the fundamental unit of analysis in critical thinking: the argument. It distinguishes between premises and conclusions, setting the stage for understanding argument structure and evaluation, which are central themes throughout the book.
“A statement is a sentence that is either true or false.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 2: The Basics of Argument
MeaningThis simple yet crucial definition helps readers identify what constitutes a claim that can be evaluated for truth value. It's fundamental for understanding the components of arguments and distinguishing them from questions, commands, or exclamations.
“A fallacy is a defect in an argument that arises from either a mistake in reasoning or a creation of an illusion that makes a bad argument appear good.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 4: Fallacies I: Irrelevant Premises
MeaningThis definition of a fallacy is key to understanding common errors in reasoning. It explains that fallacies can stem from logical errors or deceptive rhetorical tactics, which is a major focus of several chapters dedicated to informal fallacies.
“The principle of charity requires that we interpret an argument in the most reasonable way possible.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 3: Argument Structure
MeaningThis principle is a crucial guideline for fair and effective argument analysis. It advises readers to avoid misrepresenting an opponent's argument, encouraging them to reconstruct it in its strongest possible form before evaluating it, thereby preventing straw man fallacies.
“A deductive argument is intended to provide logically conclusive support for its conclusion.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 3: Argument Structure
MeaningThis definition introduces one of the two main types of arguments discussed in the book. It highlights the standard of logical certainty that deductive arguments aim for, where if the premises are true, the conclusion must be true.
“An inductive argument is intended to provide probable support for its conclusion.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 3: Argument Structure
MeaningThis definition introduces the second main type of argument. It clarifies that inductive arguments aim for probability rather than certainty, meaning that if the premises are true, the conclusion is likely true, but not guaranteed.
“Critical thinking is not about tearing down beliefs; it's about building them up, making them stronger, and ensuring they are well-supported.”
critical thinking a students introduction, gregory bassham and al · Chapter 1: Introduction to Critical Thinking
MeaningThis quote encapsulates a positive and constructive view of critical thinking, countering the common misconception that it's solely about finding fault. It emphasizes the goal of developing robust, well-reasoned beliefs.
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