Building Blocks of

Critical thinking
 Critical thinking

The ability to analyze facts, evaluate

assumptions, draw inferences, generate and
organize opinions/ideas, defend opinions,
evaluate arguments and solve problems
 Fact
• FACTS are objective, observable, and
verifiable:
– The new Tata Indica Vista weighs 1140 kg
– Raman drank three glasses of thandai last Holi
– Water freezes at zero degree Celsius
 Assumption
ASSUMPTIONS refer to things we believe to be
true:
– Large cars are safer
– Alcoholics can never return to social drinking
– People need to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water
everyday
 Inference
A step of the mind…an intellectual act by which
one concludes that something is true in light of
something else’s being true, or seeming to be
true.
Inferences can be
– accurate or inaccurate
– logical or illogical
– justified or unjustified
 Opinion

OPINIONS express judgments that must be

supported with evidence to be considered valid:
– The new Tata Indica Vista is stylish
– Raman is an alcoholic
– Cold water is the most refreshing drink
 Facts and Opinions
Fact Opinion
Can be verified Belief or judgment

Based on Based on personal

observation/research view/assumption

Unbiased use of language Use of biased

words
 Fact or Opinion?
• With fewer cars on the road, there would be less
air pollution and traffic noise; therefore, the use of
mass transportation should be encouraged.

• Do you like looking at a smoggy view from a

congested highway? How do you feel about
fighting road hugs and bumper to bumper traffic
everyday? Mass transportation is the solution to
all these problems.