Lesson 1 - Introduction To Critical Thinking
And Arguments Questions And Answers
2024/2025 Update
What is the cogency of arguments?
evaluating arguments.
the argument as a whole.
Is this set of reasoning persuasive?
What is an argument?
Is a set of reasons in support of a claim
An argument consists of a claim (conclusion), along with one or more reasons for thinking that the claim
is true. (premises)
What are claims?
Statement or propositions that can be true or false
These can be both premises and conclusions
Is this a claim?
"Melbourne is in Australia"
Yes
Is this a claim?
"Smoking causes lung cancer"
Yes
Is this a claim?
"The earth is flat"
, Yes
Is this a claim?
"Where is Melbourne?
No
Questions aren't claims
Is this a claim?
"I like smoking, don't harsh my vibe!"
No
Commands aren't claims
Where can you find arguments?
1. Academia
2. Politics
3. Advertising
4. Science
5. Personal decision making
Many can be seriously flawed
Formal Fallacy
Represent an argument and identify the premise that supports that conclusion. Look for the formal
errors in the chain of reasoning
What does critical thinking require?
1. Understanding formal features of good reasoning
2. Having an open and curious mindset
What are the two criteria for successful cogent arguments?
Truth: all the premises must be acceptable as true
Validity/Support: the premises must be sufficient to establish the conclusion
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