Explore the hidden forces shaping our thoughts in "Rethinking Logic: Surprising Science of Critical Thinking." This innovative course, led by Barbara Oakley, Terry Sejnowski, and Adam Trybus, uncovers the complexities of human reasoning and the challenges of critical thinking.
Rethinking Logic: Surprising Science of Critical Thinking
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Rethinking Logic: Surprising Science of Critical Thinking
This course is part of Critical Thinking: A Brain-Based Guide for the ChatGPT Era Specialization
Instructors: Dr. Terrence Sejnowski
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4.9
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Beginner level
Recommended experience
4 hours to complete
3 weeks at 1 hour a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Identify and understand logical fallacies such as circular reasoning and fallacies of relevance, and how they impact argument strength.
Recognize the influence of cognitive biases like confirmation bias and my-side bias on decision-making and reasoning processes.
Explore how social dynamics shape reasoning, revealing how reasoning improves through dialogue, debate, and social interaction.
Skills you'll gain
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Recently updated!
September 2024
Assessments
3 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Critical Thinking: A Brain-Based Guide for the ChatGPT Era Specialization
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There are 2 modules in this course
This module delves into the fascinating world of cognitive biases and logical fallacies that often derail our critical thinking. It explores how our brains, in an effort to conserve energy, can lead us astray with automatic thinking and confirmation bias. You'll discover the complexities of evaluating arguments, including the nuanced interplay between deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning. The module challenges traditional views on logical fallacies, introducing modern perspectives that emphasize the role of emotional and cognitive biases in flawed reasoning. Through engaging examples like the Wason Selection Test, you'll learn to identify and avoid common reasoning pitfalls. By the end, you'll have a deeper understanding of how context, language, and psychology influence our ability to think critically, equipping you with tools to navigate the murky waters of real-world logic and argumentation.
What's included
4 videos1 reading1 assignment
Module 2 takes you on a fascinating journey through the social landscape of reasoning and critical thinking. It challenges the notion that logic is a purely individual pursuit, revealing how our ability to reason is deeply intertwined with our social interactions. You'll explore the power of scientific debate in driving knowledge forward, and discover how framing problems in familiar contexts can unlock our brain's hidden reasoning potential. The module delves into the cultural nuances of logic, showing how different societies approach reasoning in unique ways. You'll gain insights into the types of curiosity that fuel critical thinking, and learn why embracing intellectual discomfort can lead to profound personal growth. From the boardroom to the laboratory, this module illuminates the complex interplay between shared values, context, and effective reasoning, offering a fresh perspective on how we can sharpen our critical thinking skills in an interconnected world.
What's included
4 videos2 readings2 assignments1 plugin
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Business Essentials
Imperial College London
Dartmouth College
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Erasmus University Rotterdam
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