Overview
A discussion of the general principles of reasonable discourse, with a focus on persuasive and cogent writing.
Please note: This course is typically offered in the fall term
In this class you will learn how to think critically; you will learn how to evaluate arguments, claims, beliefs, and so on as well as how to make solid arguments of your own. You will learn how to think clearly, a powerful skill indeed. Since the complement to thinking clearly is writing clearly, this critical thinking course also includes a writing component. Many of the assignments require short essay or paragraph-style answers. These will be marked on content, grammar, and style. Please make sure you proofread your assignments before handing them in.
Learning Outcomes
Topics
| Module 1 | Claims: Recognising, Identifying, Distinguishing, Normative vs. Non-normative Issues: Recognising Arguments: Recognising, Identifying, Distinguishing, Features, Deductive vs. Inductive, Structure, Standardising |
| Module 2 | Argument Forms Validity Translation Tips Truth Tables |
| Module 3 | Credibility of Claims Credibility of Sources Rhetoric: Distinguishing Between Rhetoric and Argument Fallacies |
| Module 4 | Inductive Arguments: Generalising Scientific sampling: Sample, Target, Feature, Typicality Polls: Random Sample, Error Margin, Confidence Level Fallacies Arguments by Analogy Cause and Effect Fallacies Testability |