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Coursera

Rethinking Logic: Surprising Science of Critical Thinking

Deep Teaching Solutions via Coursera

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Overview

Class Central Tips
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. Discover why our brains struggle with formal logic and learn to navigate common cognitive pitfalls. You'll explore fascinating concepts like the Wason Selection Test, circular reasoning, and the social nature of critical thinking. The course delves into the neuroscience behind reasoning, revealing how our brains process information differently in social contexts. What sets this course apart is its exploration of the limits of formal reasoning and the importance of context in critical thinking. You'll gain insights into different types of curiosity, the role of intellectual humility, and how to transform discomfort into personal growth. By the end of the course, you'll have a deeper understanding of your own thinking processes and practical strategies to enhance your reasoning skills. Whether you're a professional, student, or lifelong learner, this course will equip you with the tools to navigate complex decisions and evaluate information more effectively in our increasingly challenging world.

Syllabus

  • Confronting Cognitive Biases and Logical Fallacies
    • 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.
  • Embracing Intellectual Humility and Cognitive Diversity
    • 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.

Taught by

Adam Trybus, Dr. Barbara Oakley, and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski

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