1. What is the relationship between thinking and language? (120 words).
2. For participation please respond with at least 3 things you learned from the video lecture. http://quietube7.com/v.php/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhoNpapat-A (120 words).
3. Topic 4 Wrap-Up
Class,
This week we learned about the importance of identifying and dealing with fallacies. We were given the opportunity of trying to persuade another person to “think the way you do.” I hope that you were able to use the great key called reason. However, the limitations and imperfections of our thinking at times cause us to create errors in our logic. Identifying logical reasoning errors in others’ and especially in our own thinking is an integral—some say the pivotal—element in the critical thinking process. Becoming aware of when you use fallacies and how to correct them will make you be a better and more sincere communicator. Recognizing when fallacies are used to persuade you will help you be a more informed buyer, voter, student, friend, and thinker.
Being reasonable in our thinking and interactions often can help us be better informed, which helps us in many of our life decisions. What are some reasons for “reasonable” thinking to go off track? Can you provide some personal examples and experiences? (120 words).
4. Chapter 5 of the eBook discusses how words will change meaning over time. This is, in large part, because language will continue to adapt and evolve in order to meet the needs of the society using it. For example, the word “mouse” has now become synonymous with a device used with computers. What are some words that have changed meaning due to technological advances in the last 20 years? What impact do these changes have on our thought process? (120 words).
5. What is the difference between persuasion and manipulation? Describe a time when you have encountered or used one or both of these. (120 words).
6. In Topic 5, we explored the relationship between language development and thinking. Advanced use of language requires additional thinking both in constructing and comprehending a statement. For example, the use of figurative language, such as metaphors, provides people with creative ways to communicate intangible and abstract ideas. Below are some metaphors that have been used in the past to explain the relationship between thinking and language; which one do you think adequately describes that relationship and why? Describe what could happen if someone does not use critical thinking when encountering that metaphor. For example, consider how metaphors can be misinterpreted? (120 words).
a. The brain is a furrowed field waiting for the seeds of language to be planted and to grow.
b. Language is the software of the brain.
c. Language is the gas that makes the car go.
d. Language is the landscape of the mind.
7. Grand Canyon University’s slogan is “Find Your Purpose.” How have you used, or could you use critical thinking in finding your purpose? (120 words).
8. Based on Chapters 6 and 7 of the ebook, what does it mean to use ethics in your thinking? (120 words).
9. Do you feel that living wills should be discussed early on in a relationship when it’s recognized that a parent/in-law has caused or typically causes complications? (120 words).
