CRITICAL THINKING

1. All argumentation can be seen as inquiry in search for truth and reality. The truth, however, is elusive, which is why this search is always ongoing.

2. The search to disclose the truth is ongoing because all reasons, evidence, and conclusions are only representations (signs) that cannot be identified exactly with a real thing or truth being represented.

3. Because conclusions are only representations, they are provisional and subject to change or rejection when new evidence or reasons are found.

4. Our arguments tend to provide only those reasons and evidence that support our conclusions. As a result, we must constantly look for the reasons and evidence that we have omitted and be ready to modify our conclusions when we find reasons and evidence that support different conclusions.

5. Our conclusions and arguments are most often dictated by our values and those of the status quo in society or the social groups to which we belong. We are usually not fully aware of our individual or social values. If our goal is the truth rather than self-justification or conformity, we must constantly try to disclose the values that are influencing our conclusions and attempt to get beyond them.