Course

Critical Reasoning for Beginners

University of Oxford

This six-part course, "Critical Reasoning for Beginners," is designed for individuals eager to sharpen their reasoning skills. Throughout the course, you will:

  • Understand the nature of arguments and their fundamental components.
  • Explore different types of arguments and their applications.
  • Learn how to structure arguments logically and clearly.
  • Identify what constitutes a good argument by examining validity and truth.
  • Engage in practical exercises to evaluate arguments effectively in two distinct parts.

By the end of this course, you will possess invaluable skills for critically assessing beliefs and effectively communicating your viewpoints.

Course Lectures
  • The Nature of Arguments
    Marianne Talbot

    This module explores the fundamental nature of arguments, teaching you how to distinguish between different components of arguments. You will learn:

    • What constitutes an argument.
    • Identifying premises and conclusions.
    • Recognizing implicit assumptions.

    Understanding these elements is crucial for evaluating the strength and validity of arguments presented in everyday life.

  • In this module, you will delve into the various types of arguments, gaining insights into how they differ in structure and purpose. Key topics include:

    • Deductive vs. inductive arguments.
    • Arguments based on analogy.
    • Evaluating different argument forms.

    By understanding these distinctions, you will enhance your ability to analyze and engage in discussions critically.

  • This module focuses on structuring arguments in a logical format, similar to the style found in logic textbooks. You will learn how to:

    • Organize your arguments clearly.
    • Present logical flow in reasoning.
    • Utilize formal structures to enhance clarity.

    By mastering this style, you will improve both your written and verbal argumentation skills.

  • In this module, discover the criteria that define a good argument, focusing on two critical aspects: validity and truth. You will cover:

    • Understanding validity in arguments.
    • Exploring the role of truth in argumentation.
    • Differentiating between valid and sound arguments.

    These concepts are essential for assessing the strength of arguments encountered in daily life.

  • This module marks the beginning of practical application, where you will learn techniques for evaluating arguments effectively. You will:

    • Apply critical thinking skills to real-life arguments.
    • Identify strengths and weaknesses in reasoning.
    • Practice evaluating arguments from various sources.

    This foundational training will prepare you for more advanced evaluation techniques in the subsequent module.

  • Building on the previous module, this session continues your journey into advanced argument evaluation techniques. You will:

    • Engage in discussions about complex arguments.
    • Utilize advanced analytical tools for assessment.
    • Refine your reasoning skills through interactive exercises.

    By the end of this module, you will feel confident in evaluating a range of arguments presented in various contexts.