Guide to Critical Thinking

Logic Does Not Need to Be Learned
A second misconception is that logic does not need to be learned. After all, humankind’s 
unique distinction among other animals is the faculty of rationality and abstract thought. 
Although many nonhuman animals have very high levels of intelligence, to the best of our 
knowledge, abstract thought seems to be the mark of humankind’s particular brand of 
rationality. Today the applications of logical reasoning are all around us. We are able to 
experience air travel and marvel at rockets in space. We are also able to enjoy cars, sky-
scrapers, computers, cell phones, air-conditioning, home insulation, and even smart homes 
that allow users to regulate light, temperature, and other functions remotely via smart-
phones and other devices. Logical reasoning has afforded us an increasingly better picture 
of reality, and as a result, our lives have become more comfortable.
However, if logical reasoning is a natural human trait, then why should anyone have to learn 
it? We certainly experience emotions without any need to be trained, so why would the case 
be different with our rational capacities? Consider the difference between natural capacities 
that are nonvoluntary or automatic, on the one hand, and natural capacities that involve our 
will, on the other. Swallowing, digesting, and breathing are nonvoluntary natural capacities, 
as are emotions. We usually do not will ourselves to feel happy, angry, or excited. Rather, we 
usually just find ourselves feeling happy, angry, or excited.
A Closer Look: Logic: A Human Invention? (continued)
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Section 1.2 
Three Misconceptions About Logic
Now contrast these with voluntary natural capacities such as walking, running, or sitting. We 
usually need to will these actions in order for them to take place. We do not just find ourselves 
running without intending to run, as is the case with swallowing, breathing, or feeling excited 
or angry. If logic were akin to breathing, the world would likely look like a different place.
Logic is practiced with intention and must be learned, just like we learn to walk, sit, and run. 
True, almost everyone learns to run to some degree as part of the normal process of growing 
up. Similarly, almost everyone learns a certain amount of logical reasoning as they move from 
infant to adult. However, to be a good runner, you need to learn and practice specific skills. 
Similarly, although everyone has some ability in logic, becoming a good critical thinker 
requires learning and practicing a range of logical skills.