The Fifth Edition of Becoming a Critical Thinker has increased its market appeal by enhancing sections on persuasive
communication and evaluating arguments, while continuing to stress concrete and practical applications of critical
thinking in everyday situations. Coverage of technology has also been enhanced. The text breaks up critical thinking
into a series of cumulative activities, taking a "student-as-consumer-of-information" perspective that
encourages students to apply the skills outlined to their own lives. This unique approach has made this text a
staple of many critical thinking courses.
The Fifth Edition strengthens the connection between critical thinking and career preparation with new material
throughout the text that focuses on communication and the evaluation of evidence in the workplace. Additionally,
a new section in Chapter 6 called "Thinking Critically about Careers" addresses practical ways to apply
critical thinking to career decisions. With the goals of improving students' sense of self-empowerment and their
ability to communicate effectively in any situation, this text helps create a flow from the fundamentals of thinking
to the exploration of arguments and evidence. A concise structure makes the text a useful supplement to any student
success course.
"Good Thinking" boxes feature profiles of individuals that underscore the role of critical thinking
in achievement. These boxes appear throughout the text and offer students a variety of role models to emulate.
Exercises encourage students to put strategies to practical use in their daily lives. Students are also asked
to analyze and compare real arguments and viewpoints on contemporary topics as a way of expanding their own reasoning
capabilities.
Quizzes at the end of each chapter allow students to test their understanding of chapter concepts.
Table of Contents
Note: Each chapter concludes with a Quiz.
Introduction: Strategies for Effective Learning
Plan Your Days
View Frustrations as Opportunities
Tackle Unpleasant Tasks Immediately
Chip Away at Big Jobs
Take charge of your mind
Listen Actively
Refuse to Tolerate Confusion
Study Efficiently
Capture Insights
Read for Understanding
Keep a Journal
Turn These Strategies into Habits
1. Fundamentals of Thinking
What Is Intelligence?
What Is Thinking?
Key Principles of Thinking
Identifying Facts and Opinions
Checking Facts and Testing Opinions
Evaluating Evidence
Dare to Change Your Mind
A Comprehensive Thinking Strategy
2. Persuasive Communication
What Is Persuasion?
How Is Persuasion Achieved?
Strategy for Persuasive Writing
Overcoming Errors in Grammar
Overcoming Errors in Usage
Strategy for Persuasive Speaking
Strategy for Group Discussion
3. Becoming an Individual
What Is Individuality?
Acknowledging Influences
Understanding Attitudes
Four Empowering Attitudes
Recognizing Manipulation
Resisting Manipulation
Habits for Individuality
4. Evaluating Arguments
What Is an Argument?
Conducting Library Research
Conducting Internet Research
Conducting an Interview
Avoiding Plagiariam
Revisiting Evidence
Evaluating Complex Arguments
A Caution About Bias
5. Recognizing Errors in Thinking
Three Kinds of Errors
Errors of Perception
Errors of Judgment
Errors of Reaction
Errors Can Multiply
6. Applying Your Thinking Skills
Thinking Critically About Everyday Problems
Thinking Critically About Relationships
Thinking Critically About Careers
Thinking Critically About Ethical Judgments
Thinking Critically About Commercials
Thinking Critically About Print Advertising
Thinking Critically About TV Programming
Thinking Critically About Movies
Thinking Critically About Music
Thinking Critically About Magazines
Thinking Critically About Newspapers
Thinking Critically About the Internet
