PHIL 347 Week 8 Journal

PHIL 347 Week 8 Journal

Name

Chamberlain University

PHIL-347: Critical Reasoning

Prof. Name

Date

Critical Thinking

Reflection on Definition

Upon reviewing my initial journal entry, I find that my definition of critical thinking remains unchanged. I continue to believe that critical thinking involves the ability to utilize one’s knowledge effectively and apply it to real-life situations. For instance, a nurse must possess strong critical thinking skills to provide optimal care for patients. This enduring perspective underscores the practical application of critical thinking in professional settings.

Heart of the Matter

Importance of Concepts in Critical Thinking

In my first journal entry, I reflected on the authors’ assertion that the concepts presented in Chapters 12, 13, and 14 constitute “the heart of the matter.” After studying these chapters in depth, I now understand that these concepts are pivotal to critical thinking because they elucidate how humans think and the reasoning processes behind their thoughts. These chapters lay the foundation for our critical thinking abilities, enabling us to analyze differing viewpoints and understand the reasoning behind disagreements. This enhanced comprehension reinforces the authors’ emphasis on these concepts as essential to developing robust critical thinking skills.

Journal

Ethical Decision-Making

The lecture posited that an argument is ineffective unless it is grounded in a “strong and reasoned ethical base.” I agree with this assertion, as ethics play a crucial role in forming sound arguments. Ethics involve the principles that govern right and wrong conduct, while an argument consists of reasons aimed at persuading others about the validity of an action or idea. Combining these definitions highlights the synergy between ethics and effective argumentation. For example, cheating on a test is universally recognized as unethical, making it an unacceptable behavior. Therefore, incorporating ethical considerations strengthens the validity and persuasiveness of an argument.

Looking Forward

Lifelong Learning in Critical Thinking

I do not believe that I have acquired all the necessary knowledge about critical thinking within the past eight weeks. Instead, I view critical thinking as a lifelong endeavor. Continuous learning is essential because new information and experiences constantly emerge, requiring ongoing critical analysis. For example, in the nursing profession, critical thinking is integral to daily practice as nurses encounter diverse challenges within their scope of practice. This perpetual learning process ensures that critical thinking skills remain sharp and relevant throughout one’s career.

PHIL 347 Week 8 Journal

Table: Reflection on Critical Thinking and Ethical Decision-Making