Good Reasoning Matters!: A Constructive Approach to Critical Thinking - Softcover

Groarke, Leo A.; Tindale, Christopher W.; Fisher, Linda

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0195412257 ISBN 13: 9780195412253

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1997

Synopsis

In this second edition of their successful book, the authors introduce over 150 new examples of argumentation from contemporary and ancient sources, ranging from Plato and Aristotle to university student newspapers. This completely revised edition also includes a section which gives sample answers to some of the many exercises found throughout the book.
Many books on reasoning emphasize fallacies, or bad arguments--an emphasis that can promote the jaded attitude that logic is a tool of finding fault with arguments and arguers. This innovative approach to critical thinking emphasizes the construction of good arguments instead. By isolating and focusing on the components of good reasoning, it teaches readers how to reason well and build their own good arguments. Bad arguments are treated as those which violate the criteria governing the good arguments. Analyzing bad arugments in this manner requires time and thought and avoids the hasty application of a fallacy label. Recognizing the importance of rhetorical considerations, this book also moves beyond traditional approaches to logic by introducing readers to the importance and intricacies of audience.

About this title

About the Author

All three authors have taught courses on critical thinking and informal logic using a variety of methods. Their research is published in numerous books and articles.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0195412257
• ISBN 13: 9780195412253
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 380