Guide to Critical Thinking

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With Good Reason: A Guide to Critical Thinking
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· March 2015
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Gloria Zúñiga y Postigo
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1
1
An Introduction to Critical 
Thinking and Logic
Hemera Technologies/Ablestock.com/Thinkstock
Learning Objectives
After reading this chapter, you should be able to:
1. Explain the importance of critical thinking and logic.
2. Describe the relationship between critical thinking and logic.
3. Explain why logical reasoning is a natural human attribute that we all have to develop as a skill.
4. Identify logic as a subject matter applicable to many other disciplines and everyday life.
5. Distinguish the various uses of the word argument that do not pertain to logic.
6. Articulate the importance of language in logical reasoning.
7. Describe the connection between logic and philosophy.
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Section 1.1 
What Is Critical Thinking?
This book will introduce you to the tools and practices of critical thinking. Since the main tool 
for critical thinking is logical reasoning, the better part of this book will be devoted to discuss-
ing logic and how to use it effectively to become a critical thinker.
We will start by examining the practical importance of critical thinking and the virtues it 
requires us to nurture. Then we will explore what logic is and how the tools of logic can help 
us lead easier and happier lives. We will also briefly review a critical concept in logic—the 
argument—and discuss the importance of language in making good judgments. We will con-
clude with a snapshot of the historical roots of logic in philosophy.