CT: Reason & Emotion 1

What is “reason” in critical thinking?

• Guessing based on instincts
• Supporting a claim using evidence and rules
• Feeling strongly about something
• Believing without questioning

Answer explanation

Reason involves using evidence and logical rules to support conclusions.

Why is it easier for people to reason in familiar situations?

• They don’t need logic
• They follow emotions
• They apply learned rules more easily
• They can avoid thinking critically

Answer explanation

People reason better in familiar situations because they recognize patterns more easily.

According to traditional Western thought, what was reason believed to be?

• A form of divine instinct
• A gift from science
• A divine spark unique to humans
• A learned behavior from society

Answer explanation

Traditional Western thought considered reason a unique, divine human trait.

What assumption in science cannot be proven through reason alone?

• Emotions influence thinking
• The world outside us exists
• People have consciousness
• Animals can use tools

Answer explanation

Science assumes the real world exists, but this can't be proven by reason alone.

Which of the following is NOT one of the components of reason?

• Abstract thinking
• Generalization
• Behavioral modification
• Blind faith

Answer explanation

Blind faith is not part of logical reasoning strategies.

What stereotype has affected women’s leadership roles?

• Women are too logical
• Women lack education
• Women are too emotional
• Women prefer solitude

Answer explanation

The stereotype that women are 'too emotional' has been used to block leadership opportunities.

Feminist thinkers argue that the gap between men and women in reason is due to what?

• Emotional instability
• Lack of education
• Discrimination and unequal opportunity
• Physical strength

Answer explanation

Feminists say the reasoning gap is due to unequal treatment, not capability.

How can sexism negatively affect men?

• They are forced to take leadership roles
• Their nurturing roles may be judged negatively
• They are excluded from manual labor
• They are praised too often

Answer explanation

Sexist views can harm men by limiting acceptance of nurturing roles.

Why must critical thinkers examine their assumptions about gender and age?

• To become emotionally intelligent
• To avoid logical fallacies
• To prevent distorted views and unfair harm
• To write better essays

Answer explanation

Unexamined beliefs about gender and age can lead to biased thinking.

What have studies shown about reasoning and dreams?

• Dreams distract us from logic
• Dreams are meaningless
• Dreams can help solve problems
• Dreams only reflect emotions

Answer explanation

Studies show dreams can help solve problems, such as Mendeleyev’s periodic table insight.