The Nature of Logic and Perception

The Nature of Logic and Perception

Bubba

PHL/251

October 30, 2006

Introduction

The nature of logic can be defined from many different factors. Deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, the approach to logical problem solving, personal barriers such as emotions, prejudices and stereotyping can all affect our logical thought process and inevitably the outcome of our decision making. While logical thinking can become a learned mental process, we are still greatly influenced by sequential thought. Logical thinking involves taking ideas, facts and conclusions and arranging them in a sequential order. Critical thinking becomes essential for us to function in day to day life.

Thinking is expressing our thoughts which allow us to look at them more objectively. Clarity is a gift writing gives to our thinking. (Goodpaster,Kirby,1999). Throughout history all great civilizations have produced great thinkers. The Greeks had Plato, Socrates and Aristotle. The Romans produced Cicero, Tertullian and Quintilian all of whom built massive structures of the mind as the Romans built massive architectural structures. (Goodpaster, Kirby,1999). Critical thinking is a driving force in education and a powerful tool to have in life. As one who questions why things are done a certain way, critical thinking has become a part of being open-minded and fair-minded in making business decisions, honesty in facing my own personal biases and clear in making rational judgments. As a logical thinker, arriving at conclusions in a sequential matter allows me to focus on inquiries and maintain persistence in seeking results.

Critical thinking allows one to distinguish between facts and opinions as opposed to personal feelings and preconceived notions. Critical thinking allows for arguments to be inductive or deductive as well as objective and subjective. Critical thinking also allows one to think “well” and to impose a certain amount of discipline and restraint on our current levels of intellect.

Learning to be a critical thinker is blocked by our own prejudices, biases, lack of information, education, understanding and thinking “inside of the box.” Through the nature of logic, the object of intense dispute arises. It is not possible to clearly delineate the bounds of logic in terms acceptable to all rival viewpoints. (www.wikipedia.com) Learning to use logic involves studying principles and methods which are distinguishing correct from incorrect reasoning.

Perceptual blocks which prohibit one from making clear decisions are those as noted above. In addition, family values, where we are born, how we are raised and oftentimes the beliefs of our parents and peers will persuade our own opinions. Learning to overcome these prejudices and biases,