PHIL& 115 - Critical Thinking

Credits: 5
Introduces students to informal non-symbolic logic and critical thinking. Sample topics include language analysis, inductive reasoning, statistical analysis, causal reasoning, arguments from analogy and fallacious patterns of reasoning. Students examine arguments in real-life situations which allows for a more willing exchange of ideas through asking questions, constructing arguments, and engaging in reasoned discussion.

Enrollment Requirement: Eligible for ENGL 99 or instructor consent.

Satisfies Requirement: Humanities/Fine Arts/English

Course Outcomes:
Students who successfully complete this class will be able to:

Demonstrate command of important philosophical terminology, themes, and arguments related to the systematic formulation and evaluation of beliefs by rational standards.
State and evaluate non-trivial theories and arguments from various sources related to critical thinking.
Relate critical thinking to personal freedom and empowerment.

Program Outcomes
Form, analyze, and assess beliefs while demonstrating intellectual humility and respect towards the beliefs of others.

College-wide Outcomes

Critical Thinking - Critical thinking finds expression in all disciplines and everyday life. It is characterized by an ability to reflect upon thinking patterns, including the role of emotions on thoughts, and to rigorously assess the quality of thought through its work products. Critical thinkers routinely evaluate thinking processes and alter them, as necessary, to facilitate an improvement in their thinking and potentially foster certain dispositions or intellectual traits over time.
Written Communication - Written Communication encompasses all the abilities necessary for effective expression of thoughts, feelings, and ideas in written form.