Eight Elements of Thought and Reasoning
There are eight elements of thought in reasoning. We often use more than one element at the same time. For example, your Point of View includes Assumptions. Therefore, we can assume that these elements are two aspects of the same thing.
For your assignment this week, first begin by analyzing eight elements of thought and reasoning and re-organize them into four distinct categories by pairing elements together.
Next, briefly describe each new category you created and present your reasoning for each category. Include the characteristics of the original eight elements in your descriptions and the reasoning behind your pairings
Category:
Point of view is …
Assumptions are…
Explanation…
Example:
Below is an example of what one category may look like. You are free to pair any elements together if you can define their relationship to one another. Focus on the reasoning behind each pairing. That is what is most important in this exercise!
Category: Perspective and Foundations
Point of view is the lens through which we perceive and interpret the world around us. It represents our unique beliefs, values, and experiences that shape our understanding of information and guide our reasoning.
Assumptions are the underlying beliefs or presuppositions we hold about a given situation or topic. They are often unstated and taken for granted, influencing our thoughts and actions without conscious recognition.
Explanation: In this category, we have paired point of view and assumptions together as they both involve the foundational aspects of our reasoning process. Our point of view influences the assumptions we make, and our assumptions, in turn, shape our perspective on a particular matter.
Category: Purpose and Goal
Purpose represents the objective or intention behind our thinking. It is the reason why we engage in the act of reasoning and provides direction to our thought process.
Goal refers to the desired outcome or result we aim to achieve through our thinking. It helps us focus our efforts, prioritize information, and make informed decisions.
Explanation: Purpose and goal are closely related elements as they involve the intention and desired outcome of our reasoning. Our purpose drives our goal, and our goal guides our thinking towards a specific direction.
Category: Evidence and Information
Evidence refers to the facts, data, or information that supports or contradicts our beliefs and assumptions. It serves as the basis for our reasoning, helping us evaluate the validity and reliability of our claims.
Information encompasses the knowledge, data, or experiences we gather from various sources. It forms the foundation of our reasoning process and shapes the evidence we use to support our arguments.
Explanation: Evidence and information go hand in hand, as evidence is derived from the information we have acquired. They are paired together in this category to highlight their interdependence in the reasoning process.
Category: Inference and Implications
Inference involves drawing conclusions or making predictions based on the evidence and information available to us. It requires logical reasoning and critical thinking to reach meaningful insights.
Implications refer to the potential consequences or outcomes that may arise from our reasoning and decisions. They involve considering the broader impact of our thoughts and actions.
Explanation: Inference and implications are paired as they both relate to the outcomes of our reasoning process. Inference represents the immediate conclusions we draw, while implications encompass the wider effects and potential ramifications of our reasoning.
For example, by considering our point of view (perspective) and assumptions, we can better understand how they shape our reasoning. Our purpose (intent) and goal direct our thinking towards specific objectives. By evaluating the evidence and information, we can draw inferences and consider the implications of our reasoning.
Remember, the categorization and reasoning behind each pairing may vary, as long as you can justify the relationship between the elements.