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What is the difference between logic and critical thinking?

Published in Education 2 mins read

Logic and critical thinking are closely related, but they're not the same thing.

Logic: The Foundation

  • Logic is a system of reasoning that uses a set of rules to determine the validity of arguments. It's about deducing conclusions from given information.
  • Think of it like a puzzle: If you know that all cats are mammals and that Mittens is a cat, you can logically conclude that Mittens is a mammal.
  • Logic deals with the structure of arguments, not their content. A logically valid argument can still have false premises.

Critical Thinking: The Application

  • Critical thinking takes logic a step further. It's the process of analyzing information, identifying assumptions, and evaluating evidence to form judgments.
  • It's not just about following rules, but also about questioning them.
  • Critical thinking involves:
    • Identifying biases: Recognizing how personal beliefs or experiences might influence your thinking.
    • Evaluating sources: Determining the reliability and credibility of information.
    • Considering alternative perspectives: Exploring different viewpoints to get a more complete understanding.

In a Nutshell:

  • Logic is the tool, critical thinking is the skill.
  • Logic helps us determine if an argument is valid, while critical thinking helps us decide if an argument is sound.

Example:

Let's say you read an article claiming that eating chocolate makes you smarter.

  • Logic would tell you that if the article presents a valid argument, then the conclusion might be true.
  • Critical thinking would involve questioning the article's evidence, considering potential biases, and researching alternative perspectives. You might find that the article's claims are not supported by scientific evidence.

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