The Craft of Thinking: Logic, Scientific Method and the Pursuit of Truth
Edition: 2
Copyright: 2004
Pages: 222
Edition: 2
Copyright: 2004
Pages: 222
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The Craft of Thinking: Logic, Scientific Method and the Pursuit of Truth is an introduction to logical reasoning and critical thinking that equips readers with the tools needed to analyze arguments, evaluate evidence, and make sound decisions. Blending formal logic with practical applications, the text demonstrates how clear reasoning supports scientific inquiry, effective communication, and the pursuit of truth. Through a systematic exploration of deductive and inductive reasoning, logical structures, and argument analysis, readers develop the ability to distinguish valid reasoning from common errors and fallacies.
The book progresses from foundational concepts of language and reasoning to increasingly sophisticated methods of evaluating complex arguments and value-based discussions. Topics include implication, syllogisms, formal proofs, logical problem solving, and ethical reasoning, while emphasizing the role of logic in scientific thinking and everyday decision-making. By combining theoretical principles with practical exercises, The Craft of Thinking helps students strengthen their analytical skills, improve their ability to construct and evaluate arguments, and apply logical reasoning across academic, professional, and personal contexts.
Acknowledgments
Preface for Teachers
Introduction
CHAPTER 1 Fundamental Concepts
I. THE USES OF LANGUAGE
1. The Informative Function
2. The Expressive Function
3. The Directive Function
4. The Aesthetic or Poetic Function
II. REASONING
1. The Nature of Reasoning
2. Deductive and Inductive Arguments
3. Old Definitions of Deductive and Inductive Arguments Are Inadequate
4. Validity and Form
5. Valid Arguments and Sound Arguments
6. How Deductive Reasoning Is Used
7. The Principle of Contradiction
CHAPTER 2 Arguments Based on Implication
1. Conditional Propositions and Implication
2. Modus Ponens and the Fallacy of Asserting the Consequent
3. Modus Tollens, Transposition, and the Fallacy of Denying the Antecedent
4. Summary of Argument Forms Based on Implication
5. Three Types of Implications
6. Different Ways of Expressing Implication
7. Analysis of Arguments
8. Definitions and Biconditionals
9. A Convenient Way to Save Time and Avoid Confusion
EXERCISES
CHAPTER 3 Other Fundamental Forms of Argument
1. The Chain Argument
2. The Disjunctive Syllogism and Implicational Equivalence
3. The Principle of Mutual Exclusivity
4. The Principle of Double Negation
5. Dilemmas
6. Special Cases of the Constructive Dilemma
7. Summary of Argument Forms
EXERCISES
CHAPTER 4 Troubleshooting Techniques: Seeing the Logical Structure in Language
1. Identification of Premises and Conclusions
2. Dealing with Long, Cumbersome Phrases
3. Synonyms and Fuzzy Terms and Phrases
4. Premises that Require Reformatting
5. Arguments with Unstated Assumptions
6. Statements Not Expressed in 'If-Then' or 'Either-Or' Terms
EXERCISES
CHAPTER 5 The Logic of Syllogisms
1. The Four Types of Propositions
2. Syllogisms
3. Determining Validity and Invalidity in Syllogisms
4. Two Important Cases of Invalid Syllogisms
5. The Question of Existence
6. Using Counter-Examples to Prove Invalidity
EXERCISES
CHAPTER 6 Solving Complex Problems
1. Determining Validity in Extended Arguments
2. Showing Invalidity
3. Formal Proofs of Extended Arguments
4. Proving Inconsistency
EXERCISES
CHAPTER 7 Thinking Logically about Value Issues 1. The Importance of Logic in Value Discussions
2. Spotting and Clarifying Missing Assumptions
3. The Concept of Prima Facie Value
4. Intrinsic versus Extrinsic Value
5. Evaluating Basic Criteria for Value Decisions
(a) Egoistic hedonism
(b) Utilitarianism
(c) Value systems based on concepts of justice
(d) Personalism
(e) Ethical relativism
Ralph D. Ellis is an American philosopher and educator whose career has been dedicated to integrating the social sciences with philosophy of mind, ethics, and phenomenology.
He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Duquesne University and a postdoctoral M.S. in Public Affairs from Georgia State University.
Ellis has been a professor of philosophy at Clark Atlanta University since 1985, where he has also served as editor of the academic journal Consciousness and Emotion. His scholarly work spans topics such as consciousness, ethics, moral psychology, and the interplay of imagery, cognition, and emotion in the human brain.