Guide to Critical Thinking

Summary and Resources
Chapter Summary
We have covered a lot of ground in this chapter. First we introduced the ideas of critical 
thinking and logic as tools that help us identify warranted judgments. In other words, if we 
have a belief, then logic helps us find an argument that warrants either our acceptance or 
rejection of this belief. By means of arguments, logic thus helps us clarify when our judg-
ments are warranted and our beliefs are likely true. Second, we have presented a prelimi-
nary understanding of the argument as a methodical defense of a position advanced in 
relation to a disputed issue. Arguments provide us with a structure that will help us discern 
fact from purely emotional appeal and identify sober judgment from wishful thinking. Third, 
we have defined philosophy as an activity of clarifying ideas. As such, it can be applied to 
ideas in every activity—for example, raising children, learning, tasks at work, cooking, mak-
ing decisions—and to every discipline—for example, physics, mathematics, economics, biol-
ogy, information systems, engineering, sociology, and so on.
Chapter 2 will introduce you to the argument, the principal tool of logic. Chapters 3 through 8
will teach you the applications of logical reasoning, and Chapter 9 will show you how the 
knowledge that you gained can be applied in your everyday life. Approach these chapters 
methodically: Do a first reading to get a general idea, then go back and focus on the details of 
each section of the chapters, always taking notes. Keep in mind that what you are learning is a 
method for thinking, so you cannot adopt it simply by reading. Practice what you are learning 
by doing the indicated exercises and activities.
The goal of this chapter has been to show you why logic is an indispensable tool in your life. 
(For some thoughts on how critical thinking and logic might apply to your life as a student, 
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Summary and Resources
see Everyday Logic: Thinking Critically About Your Studies.) Over the course of this book, you 
will see how logical reasoning can help you make wiser choices. You will also find that the 
benefits extend beyond yourself, since by developing the habit of good reasoning you will 
also become more enlightened parents, better spouses, wiser voters, and more productive 
community members. There is a fundamental humanity in logical reasoning that brings 
people together rather than alienating them from one another. To achieve the habit of logical 
reasoning, this book will lead you in a methodical process in which each chapter will pro-
vide you with an important element. Each component of this book is not only important but 
also necessary in learning the tools of logical reasoning.