SELECT COLLEGE

DEPARTMENT OF PHARMACY AND NURSING

MEGENAGNA CAMPUS ( 2017 A.Y )

Group Assignment - on Critical Thinking

Group#1 members name Id No
1. Rahel Tameru Bekele ………………………………….
2. Yetnebersh Kassie ……………………………………….
3.Azize Mossu……………………………………………….
4. Marua Teshome………………………………………….
5. Aytenew Gebeyew………………………………………..
6. Amanuel Abebe…………………………………………..
7. Bekelu Bayisa…………………………………………….
8. Jemila Kedir………………………………………………
9.Tigist Alayu………………………………………………
10.Tensay Ayayu……………………………………………
11. Mihretab Getahun………………………………………
12. Mulu Woldegebriel………………………………………
13. Terefe Zewudu…………………………………………..
14. Sebele ………………………………………
15.Tsegaye ………………………………………
16. Tigist …………………………………….
Instructor : Abreham
January25, 2025
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 Table of Contents Page

Introduction……………………………………………………………………………3

Cognitive and Emotive Meanings of Words…………………………………………4

2.1 Nexus Between Logic and Language……………………………………….5

2.2 Intentional and Extensional Meanings of Terms……………………………6

Types, Purposes, and Techniques of Definitions…………………………………7,8,9

Basic Concepts of Critical Thinking………………………………………………9,10

4.1 Meaning and Definition of Critical Thinking……………………………....9

4.2 Basic Principles of Critical Thinking……………………………………...10

4.3 Criteria/Standards of Critical Thinking……………………………………11

4.4 Principles of Good Argument………………………………………………11

4.5 Traits of Critical and Uncritical Thinkers………………………………..12,13

4.6 Factors Affecting Critical Thinking…………………………………………14

Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………..

References………………………………………………………………………………..

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1.0 Introduction

The relationship between logic and language is fundamental to human cognition and

communication. Logic, as a systematic method of reasoning, provides the framework for

evaluating arguments and drawing conclusions, while language serves as the medium through

which these ideas are expressed.

This assignment aims to explore the cognitive and emotive meanings of words, the intricate

relationship between logic and language, and the various types and techniques of definitions.

Additionally, it will delve into the concept of critical thinking, examining its meaning,

principles, and the factors that influence it.

By understanding these elements, we can appreciate how language shapes our thoughts and

reasoning processes, thereby enhancing our ability to communicate effectively and think

critically.

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2.0 Cognitive and Emotive meanings

Cognitive meaning :- words used to convey information.

 It is related to knowledge and skills.

 The mental processes that take place in the brain, including thinking attention, language,
leaning memory and perception.

Emotive meaning :- words used to convey your belief or your emotions.

It merely express the feelings of the speaker or evoke the feelings in the listener.

2.01 Concept of Logic and Language

Logic

 Logic is expressed in language through the use of grammar

 Logic is the study of correct reasoning.

 Logic is a tool to develop reasonable conclusions based on a given set of data

 Logic is free of emotion and purest form.

 Logic is the means of think right logically,which protects our minds from falling into error.

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 Language

 Language is the way we try and convey our thoughts and ideas to each other.

 Language is a tool that allows communicating information.

 Language is the way we try and convey our thoughts and ideas to each other.

 Language is the dress of thoughts.

2.1 The nexus (relationship) between logic and language

Logic serves as a framework for reasoning, while language is the medium through which we

express our thoughts.

Logic and language are interdependent; the clarity of language affects logical reasoning.

Logic relies on precise language to articulate arguments, while language can shape logical
structures. For instance, the ambiguity of language can lead to logical fallacies, such as
equivocation, where a word is used in multiple senses, leading to confusion in reasoning.

Example: The term "bank" can refer to a financial institution or the side of a river. If a
discussion about "banking" is not clarified, it may lead to misunderstandings.

 There is no logic without language

 The first step in developing a logic is defining a language

 Both language and logic are two foundational pillars of human - Cognition
- Communication and
- Understanding.

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Intentional meaning: consists of the qualities or attributes that the term connotes.

It is also known as connotation or intention. Intention is sense.

Or
It refers to the mental concept or idea that a term represents. It encompasses the characteristics

that define the term. For instance, the intentional meaning of "dog" includes qualities such as

being a mammal, a domesticated animal, and typically having four legs.

Extensional meaning: consists of the members of the class that the term denotes

It is also known as extension or denotation. Extension is reference.

Or
It represents the actual instances or objects that the term applies to. For example, the
extensional meaning of "dog" includes all individual dogs, such as Beagles, German Shepherds,
and Poodles.

Hence, the distinction between intentional and extensional meanings is essential for clarity in

communication. Misunderstandings can arise when speakers assume that their audience shares

the same understanding of a term's intentional meaning without clarifying its extensional

application.

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2.2 Types of Logic

The different types of Logic

 The four main types of logic are:-

1. Informal logic: uses deductive and inductive reasoning

2. Formal logic: uses syllogisms to make inferences.
3. Symbolic logic: uses symbols to accurately map out valid and invalid arguments
4. Mathematical logic - uses mathematical symbols to prove the theoretical arguments.

There are four languages of communication

1. Written language: represented by means of writing.

2. Spoken language - language produced by articulate Sounds or manual gesture-

3. Body Language : the movement and positions of people's bodies that express their
thoughts& feelings.
4. Listening Language : the act of paying attention to Sounds of nature.

Purpose of Logic

 It eliminates ambiguity

 It reduce vagueness

 Influence attitudes

 Explain theoretically.

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Examples of logic,

Man is mortal.

For all thing, if it is raining, then the thing is wet.

Purpose of Language

 To convey emotions, ideas, opinions and thoughts.

 To understand other's perspective point of view.

 To overcome communication gaps and to bridge understanding.

Example of language,

An example is Spoken language

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3.0 Discuss the basic concept of critical thinking.

Meaning and definition of Critical thinking.

 Critical thinking is the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information to make
reasoned judgments.
 It involves questioning assumptions and considering alternative perspectives.

 Critical thinking is the intellectually disciplined process.

 Critical thinking is kind of thinking in which your question, analyse, interpret, evaluate
and make a judgement about what you need.

Critical thinking involves.

 Asking questions

 Defining a problem-

 Examining evidence

 Avoiding emotional reasoning.

 Considering other interpretation and

 Tolerating ambiguity

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Critical thinkers strive to adopt a point of view that is fair to others, even to opposing points of
view.
 Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally about what to do or what to
believe.

 Critical thinking is the process of analyzing available facts & observations.

3.1. Basic principles of critical Thinking

1. Identify the problem: - to implement a critical thinking process crucial to solve the
Problems.
2. Per-form adequate research :- initial understanding of the issue, gather relevant
information including team input and previous project data-

3. Determine the relevance of gathered information :- It is essential to determine data

Suitability after gathering information from various source

4. Ask relevant questions - helps you challenge your assumptions about the problem to
determine its accuracy.

5. Identify an effective Solution: - to derive a conclusion from the research and gathered
information, you can make connection between the causes and effects.

6. Present Your Solution:- after identifying a solution to the problems communicate this to
relevant parties, Such as team members and shareholders.

7. Analyze the Solution's effectiveness:- can help you determine if it solved the initial
Problem.

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3.2 . Criteria / Standards of the critical thinking

Critical thinking is guided by several criteria that help evaluate the quality of reasoning:

There are nine standards of the critical thinking. Those are:

1. Clarity : Ensuring that ideas are expressed clearly.

2. Accuracy: Verifying the truth of information.

3. Precision : aims to reduce vagueness and clarify terms by specifying conditions or limits.

4. Relevance : Ensuring that arguments are pertinent to the issue at hand.

5. Depth : Addressing the complexities of an issue.

6. Breadth :Looking at the issue from multiple perspectives.

7. Logic :Maintaining a coherent structure in reasoning.

8. Significance: Refers to the importance of the ideas.

9. Fairness :Considering all viewpoints.

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3.3 . Principles of good Argument

A good argument is characterized by:

Soundness: Valid reasoning and true premises.

Relevance: All premises must support the conclusion.

There are different principles of good argument. These are as listed below.

 A debatable and supportable claim

 Logical reasoning to support your claim.

 Sound evidence and examples to justify the reasoning

 Reasonable Projections

 Concessions a rebuttals

 Avoid logical fallacies

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3.4. Traits of critical and Un-Critical Thinkers

Traits & critical trait

 Truth Seeking- ask questions and follow the evidence

 Judicious :-able to make judgement.

 Inquisitive strive to be well-informed on wide range of topic.

 Confidant in reasoning - trustful of own Skills to make good judgement.

 Clear Communication :- Communication is the key to the success and growth of an

individual irrespective of the Profession.

 Adaption - Being critical thinker & can adapt fast charging.

 Collaboration :- analyze the Situation.

 Self-Reflection-Serve as a useful means of self improvement.

 Open-mindless- critical thinkers open to entertaining the opinions of thoughts of others.

Traits of Un-Critical Thinker

Here are Some traits of uncritical thinkers

1. Lack of Self-knowledge

2. Lack of Self awareness

3 .They also pretend that they know more than they do.

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This leads them to delusional tough that make them view things they do as error less and
absolute

4 Irrational when dealing.

. Dogmatic, impulsive, resistant to new ideas.

3.5. Factors affecting critical thinking

Several factors can influence an individual's ability to think critically:

1. Physical factors :-Age, health, illness, pain, influence of a substance or medications.

2 Personal and emotional factor:- Personality beliefs, expectations, emotions, mental health;
 This refers to personal biases and emotions can cloud judgment and hinder objective

analysis.

2. Life-experiences :- Family, culture, friends, life, what the persons needs & wants.
 This refers to Social and Cultural Context: the environment, cultural norms, and societal
influences can shape the way individuals approach problems and reasoning.

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CONCLUSION

 This assignment investigates essential concepts in logic and language, as well as critical
thinking.

 By analyzing the meanings of words, types of definitions, and principles of critical

thinking, we gain a deeper understanding of how language shapes our reasoning and
decision-making processes.

 Understanding the interplay between logic and language is essential for effective
communication and reasoning.

 This assignment highlights also the importance of definitions and critical thinking in
fostering clear and rational discourse.

 By recognizing the cognitive and emotive dimensions of language, we can enhance our
ability to think critically and engage in meaningful dialogue.

 By fostering critical thinking skills, individuals can navigate complex issues more
effectively and make informed decisions, ultimately contributing to a more rational and
thoughtful society.

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References

1. Chalmers, D. J. (Year). Language, Logic, and the Brain.

2. Wittgenstein, L. (Year). Philosophical Investigations.

3. Moore, B.N., & Parker, R. (2017). Critical Thinking. McGowan-Hill Education.

4. Copi, I.M., & Cohen, C. (2011). Introduction to Logic. Pearson.

5. Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2014). Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your

Professional and Personal Life. Pearson.

6. Facione, P.A. (2015). Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why It Counts. Insight Assessment.

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