PHL201 Critical Thinking (8)

This subject is an introduction to informal logic and the nature of argument, especially as it relates to real life settings. It is designed to develop the intellectual virtues of clear thinking and rational decision making. Students will learn to accurately interpret the many types of arguments they encounter on a day to day basis, from the mundane to exotic. They will learn not only to distinguish good arguments from bad, but also to consistently construct good arguments for themselves. Students will also have the opportunity to apply their reasoning skills to a particular field of practice.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PHL201. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Social Work and Arts

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to show that particular arguments are unsound, or have unnoticed or unwanted implications;
  • be able to diagnose fallacies in reasoning and to avoid fallacies in their own writing;
  • be able to demonstrate some familiarity with the scope and content of modern applied logic; and
  • be able to apply critical reasoning skills to a relevant field of practice.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • What is an argument?
  • Pinning down argument structure
  • When is an argument a good one?
  • Looking at language
  • Premises: What to accept and why
  • Working on relevance
  • Common types of arguments

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of PHL201 in Session 2 2021. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Weekly exercises
60
2
Final test
40

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: June 2022. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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