ABSTRACT

We all engage in the process of reasoning, but we don't always pay attention to whether we are doing it well. This book offers the opportunity to practise reasoning in a clear-headed and critical way, with the aims of developing an awareness of the importance of reasoning well and of improving the reader's skill in analyzing and evaluating arguments.

In this third edition, Anne Thomson has updated and revised the book to include fresh and topical examples which will guide students through the processes of critical reasoning in a clear and engaging way. In addition, two new chapters on evaluating the credibility of evidence and decision making and dilemmas will fully equip students to reason well. By the end of the book students should be able to:

  • identify flaws in arguments
  • analyze the reasoning in newspaper articles, books and speeches
  • assess the credibilty of evidence and authorities
  • make sound decisions and solve dilemmas
  • approach any topic with the ability to reason and think critically.

chapter |4 pages

INTRODUCTION

chapter 1|30 pages

ANALYSING REASONING

chapter 2|37 pages

EVALUATING REASONING

chapter 3|30 pages

RECOGNISING IMPLICATIONS

chapter 5|10 pages

TWO SKILLS IN THE USE OF LANGUAGE

chapter 6|39 pages

EXERCISING THE SKILLS OF REASONING

chapter 7|10 pages

CONSTRUCTING REASONING