Introduction
Remember – these journal questions require more thinking than writing. Think about exactly what you are asked to do, and then write as economically as possible.
Instructions
For this journal assignment, briefly answer each of the following prompts. For all instances where you are required to provide a definition, do not copy definitions from the text. Use your own words.
Self-Regulation
The textbook mentions the skill of self-regulation. How do you define this term? You may want to review Chapter 2 (to review critical thinking skills) before your write out your definition.
Sytem-1 and System-2
Define System-1 and System-2 thinking in your own words.
Give an example from your personal or work life where you would use each of them, explaining why each is appropriate to the situation in which you use it.
Heuristics
Define “heuristic” in your own words.
Give an example of a heuristic might be used in your personal or professional life and briefly show how it could have a positive or negative effect.
Do not use examples found in the text.
Dominance Structuring
Explain the term “dominance structuring” in your own words.
Is dominance structuring a positive or negative attribute of critical thinking? Explain.
Use examples if that is helpful to your explanation.
Cognitive Bias
Briefly examine what part you think mastery of facts and understanding of data have in avoiding cognitive bias in System-1 thinking.
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Self-Regulation
Self-regulation is the ability to control one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is a key skill for critical thinking, as it allows us to stay focused on the task at hand and avoid being sidetracked by our emotions.
System-1 and System-2 Thinking
System-1 thinking is fast, automatic, and intuitive. It is the type of thinking we use when we make quick decisions based on our gut feelings. System-2 thinking is slow, deliberate, and analytical. It is the type of thinking we use when we need to carefully consider all the evidence before making a decision.
For example, I might use System-1 thinking to decide what to eat for lunch. I might see a sign for a restaurant that I like and decide to go there without thinking about it too much. However, if I am trying to decide which car to buy, I would use System-2 thinking thesis writing service. I would research different models, compare prices, and read reviews before making a decision.
Heuristics
Heuristics are mental shortcuts that we use to make decisions quickly and efficiently. They can be helpful, but they can also lead to errors.
For example, I might use the heuristic of availability to decide whether or not to buy a lottery ticket. I might think about how often I hear about people winning the lottery and decide that it is a good investment. However, this heuristic is flawed, as the odds of winning the lottery are very low.
Dominance Structuring
Dominance structuring is the process of organizing information in a way that makes one option seem more attractive than the others. It can be a helpful tool for critical thinking, as it can help us to make better decisions.
For example, I might use dominance structuring to compare different car models. I might create a table that lists the features of each model, along with the price. This would help me to see which model has the features that are most important to me and which model is the best value.
Cognitive Bias
Cognitive bias is a systematic error in thinking that occurs when we make judgments about the world. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including our emotions, our experiences, and our beliefs.
For example, I might be biased in favor of a particular car brand because I grew up with that brand. This bias might lead me to overlook the benefits of other car brands.
Mastery of Facts and Understanding of Data
Mastery of facts and understanding of data can help us to avoid cognitive bias in System-1 thinking. When we know the facts and understand the data, we are less likely to be swayed by our emotions or our biases.
For example, if I know that the odds of winning the lottery are very low, I am less likely to be tempted to buy a lottery ticket.
