Argument, Reasoning and Conclusion

What is the main objective of critical thinking when analyzing an argument?

• To clarify the reasons and conclusions provided

• To accept a conclusion without questioning the reasons

• To make assumptions without considering the reasons

• To ignore the reasons and focus only on the conclusion

What is the definition of an argument?

• A set of unrelated statements

• A set of conclusions and premises

• A set of conclusions without any reasons

• A set of reasons or claims to support a conclusion

What is the purpose of finding a person's reasons for their conclusions?

• To manipulate the person's reasoning

• To ignore the person's conclusions

• To understand the person's thought process

• To criticize the person's beliefs

What are the common defaults when dealing with arguments?

• Hasty, Fuzzy, Narrow

• Logical, Accurate, Strong

• Thorough, Analytical, Skeptical

• Emotional, Visual, Unstated

What is the first step in thinking critically about a person's idea or recommendation?

• Accepting the idea without question

• Clarifying the reasons and conclusions

• Assessing the conclusion

• Ignoring the reasons

What are the 3 basic standards to determine whether a conclusion is acceptable based on the reasons offered?

• Accurate, Strong, Emotional

• Logical, Analytical, Skeptical

• Accurate, Strong, Counting against

• Accurate, Strong, Counting in favor

What is the purpose of the Argument Evaluation Checklist?

• To ignore the reasons provided

• To manipulate the reasons

• To assess whether the reasons support the conclusion

• To criticize the conclusion

What is the first step in analyzing an argument skillfully?

• Breaking down the conclusion

• Detecting the reasons and conclusions

• Ignoring other viewpoints

• Accepting the conclusion without question

What is the purpose of considering other/opposing viewpoints?

• To ignore fresh perspectives

• To accept the conclusion without question

• To consider all sides of an issue before making up one's mind

• To manipulate the viewpoints

What is the purpose of assessing whether reasons provided are sufficient to support the conclusion?

• To criticize the conclusion

• To make a judgment skillfully

• To manipulate the reasons

• To ignore the reasons