SELECT BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE

PHARMACY DEPARTMENT

CRITICAL THINKING GROUP ASSIGNMENT

PREPERD BY: GROUP ONE MEMBER

1. AMANUEL ABEBE

2. AYTENEW GEBEYEHU

3. AZIZIE MOSSU

4. BEAKALU BAYESA

4. EFREM GORFU

5. JEMILA REDIR

6. MARUA TESHOME

7. MIHRTAB GETAHUN

8. MULU W/GEBRIEL

9. TENSAY AYATU

10. TIGIST ALAYU

11. RAHEL TAMERU

12. YETNEBERSH KASSIE

Submitted to: inst. Abraham .M

Submitted date: Feb 9 /2/2025

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Table of content

Table of Contents
Table of content 1

Introduction 2

1. Considering the concept of logic and language, the cognitive and emotive meanings
of words, the nexus between logic and language, and intentional and extensional
meanings of terms. 3

1.1. Cognitive and emotive meanings of word 3

1.2. The Nexus between Logic and Language 3
1.3. Intentional and Extensional Meanings of Terms 4
2. Under the topic of logic and language, the different types, purposes and different
techniques of definitions using clear examples. 4

2.1. Types of Definitions 5

2.2. Purposes of Definitions 6
2.3. Techniques for Crafting Effective Definitions 6
2.3.1. The Extensional (Denotative) Definitional Techniques 6
2.3.2. The Intensional (Connotative) Definitional Techniques 7
3. The basic concept of critical thinking 8

3.1 Meaning and Definition of Critical Thinking 8

3.2. Basic Principles of Critical Thinking 9
3.3. Criteria/Standards of Critical Thinking 10
3.4. Principles of Good Argument 11
3.5. Traits of Critical and Uncritical Thinkers 12
3.6. Factors Affecting Critical Thinking 12
Summary 14

Reference 15

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Introduction
The interplay between logic and language is fundamental to effective reasoning and
communication. By recognizing how language shapes logical structures, influences
interpretation, and affects argumentation, individuals can enhance their critical thinking
skills and engage more effectively in discussions.. Language is the most important
thing in the study of logic. Giving that logic is the study of arguments, and language
is the fundamental tool of communication. Language has two fundamental functions
in logic, conveying information and expressing or evoking feeling, which are
expressed through some terminologies. Those terminologies that convey
information are said to have cognitive meanings, and those that expresses or
evokes feelings are said to have emotive meanings

Terms symbolize two kinds of meanings: intentional meaning and extensional meaning.
The intentional meaning, which is otherwise known as intension or connotation,
consists of the qualities or attributes that the term connotes, and the extensional
meaning, which is otherwise known as extension or denotation, Meanings are conveyed
or explicated by definitions .Critical also means, ―involving or exercising skilled
judgment or observation.‖ In this sense, critical thinking means thinking clearly and
intelligently. Critical thinking is a process. It is, also, a journey that helps us to arrive at
the most useful, helpful, and most likely destinations when evaluating claims for
scientific truth.

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1. Considering the concept of logic and language, the cognitive and
emotive meanings of words, the nexus between logic and language, and
intentional and extensional meanings of terms.

1.1. Cognitive and emotive meanings of word

Cognitive Meaning

Cognitive meaning refers to the explicit, dictionary definition of a word—the information

it conveys about the world. This meaning is objective and can be verified. For example,
the word "rose" refers to a type of flowering plant in the genus Rosa, characterized by its
thorny stems and fragrant blooms. Cognitive meanings are essential for clear
communication, especially in academic and scientific contexts where precision is
paramount.

Emotive Meaning

In contrast, emotive meaning involves the feelings and emotional responses that a word
evokes in individuals. These meanings can vary significantly among different people
based on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and social contexts. For instance,
the word "rose" may evoke feelings of love and romance for some, while others may
associate it with loss or sadness due to personal experiences (Stevenson, 2010).
Emotive meanings can influence how messages are received and interpreted, impacting
persuasion and communication effectiveness.

1.2. The Nexus between Logic and Language

The relationship between logic and language is crucial in understanding how we convey
thoughts and arguments. Logic provides the rules for valid reasoning, while language
serves as the medium for expressing those thoughts. This nexus is evident in how
logical propositions are articulated through linguistic structures.

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1. Expression of Logical Relationships:

Language allows us to express logical relationships through various constructs such as

conjunctions (and), disjunctions (or), conditionals (if...then), and negations (not). For
example, the statement "If it rains, then the ground will be wet" illustrates a conditional
relationship that can be analyzed logically.

2. Ambiguity and Precision:

While language is a powerful tool for communication, it can also introduce ambiguity.
Different interpretations of the same phrase can lead to misunderstandings. Logic helps
mitigate this issue by providing a framework for evaluating the validity of arguments
regardless of linguistic ambiguity (Harris, 2009). Clear definitions and structured
reasoning are necessary to ensure that language accurately reflects logical
relationships.

1.3. Intentional and Extensional Meanings of Terms

Intentional Meaning:

Intentional meaning refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics associated with a

term—what it signifies in terms of its definition. For example, the intentional meaning of
"bird" encompasses traits such as being a warm-blooded vertebrate with feathers,
wings, and the ability to lay eggs. Intentional meanings help us categorize and
understand concepts based on their defining features.

Extensional Meaning:

In contrast, extensional meaning refers to the actual instances or objects that fall under
a term. Using the previous example, the extensional meaning of "bird" would include all
individual birds in existence—sparrows, eagles, penguins, etc. Understanding both
intentional and extensional meanings is vital for effective communication, as it allows
speakers to clarify what they mean and ensures that listeners accurately interpret their
intended message (Quine, 1960).

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2. Under the topic of logic and language, the different types, purposes and
different techniques of definitions using clear examples.
Types, Purposes, and Techniques of Definitions in Logic and Language

Definitions play a crucial role in both logic and language as they establish clarity and
understanding. They help to delineate concepts, facilitate communication, and enable
logical reasoning. Here, we will explore different types of definitions, their purposes, and
techniques for crafting effective definitions, along with clear examples.

2.1. Types of Definitions

A. Lexical Definitions:

Description: These definitions provide the conventional meaning of a word as found in

dictionaries. They describe how a term is commonly used in language. Example: The
lexical definition of "dog" is "a domesticated carnivorous mammal (Canis lupus
familiaris) that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, and barks. “Purpose:
To clarify the meaning of a term based on common usage.

B. Stipulative Definitions:

Description: These definitions assign a specific meaning to a word for the sake of
argument or discussion. They may not reflect common usage but serve a particular
purpose in a specific context. Example: In a philosophical discussion, one might
stipulate that "freedom" means "the absence of external constraints on individual
choices." Purpose: To create a clear framework for discussion or analysis by defining
terms in a specific way.

C. Précising Definitions:

Description: These definitions aim to make a vague term more precise by narrowing its
meaning to eliminate ambiguity. Example: Instead of saying "tall," a précising definition
might state that "a person is considered tall if they are over 6 feet (183 cm) in height."

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Purpose: To reduce vagueness and improve clarity in communication.

D. Theoretical Definitions:

Description: These definitions explain the meaning of a term based on a theoretical

framework or model, often used in scientific contexts. Example: In physics, "force"
might be defined as "any interaction that, when unopposed, will change the motion of an
object" according to Newton's second law. Purpose: To provide an understanding of
concepts within a particular theoretical context.

E. Operational Definitions: Description: These definitions specify the procedures or

operations used to measure or identify a concept. Example: "Intelligence" may be
defined operationally as "the score obtained on an IQ test." Purpose: To provide
measurable criteria for abstract concepts.

2.2. Purposes of Definitions

Clarity and Understanding: Definitions help clarify terms and concepts, ensuring that all
parties involved in a discussion have a shared understanding.

Facilitating Communication: By providing clear definitions, speakers can communicate

more effectively and avoid misunderstandings

Establishing Boundaries: Definitions delineate what is included or excluded within a

concept, which is essential for logical reasoning and argumentation

Supporting Arguments: Clear definitions can bolster arguments by ensuring that terms
are used consistently throughout the discourse

Guiding Research: In academic and scientific contexts, precise definitions guide

research by establishing what is being studied and how it is measured

2.3. Techniques for Crafting Effective Definitions

2.3.1. The Extensional (Denotative) Definitional Techniques

An extensional definition is one that assigns a meaning to a term by indicating the
members of the class that the definiendum denotes. There are at least three ways of
indicating the members of a class:

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A) Demonstrative (Ostensive) Definitions

Demonstrative (Ostensive) Definitions are probably the most primitive form of

definition. All one need know to understand such a definition is the meaning of pointing.
Such definitions may be either partial or complete, depending on whether all or only
some of the members of the class denoted by the definiendum are pointed to.

Examples: “Chair‟‟ means this and this and this- as you point to a number of
chairs, one after the other.

B) Enumerative Definitions

Enumerative Definitions assign a meaning to a term by naming the members of the

class the term denotes. Like demonstrative definitions, they may also be either partial or
complete. Example: “Actor‟‟ means a person such as Abebe Balicha, Samsom
Taddesse, or Mahder Assefa

C) Definition by Subclass

Definition by Subclass assigns a meaning to a term by naming subclasses of the class

denoted by the term. Such a definition, too, may be either partial or complete,
depending on whether the subclasses named, when taken together, include all the
members of the class or only some of them. See the following examples, the first is
partial, the second is complete:

Example: Tree‟‟ means an oak, pine, elm, spruce, maple, and the like. “Fictional work‟‟
means a poem, a play, a novel, or a short story

2.3.2. The Intensional (Connotative) Definitional Techniques

An intensional definition one that assigns a meaning to a word by indicating the
qualities or attributes that the word connotes. There are at least four strategies that
may be used to indicate the attributes/qualities that a word connotes.

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A) Synonymous Definition

Synonymous Definition is one in which the defines is a single word that

connotes the same attributes as the definiendum- that the defines is a synonym of the
word being defined.

Examples: “Physician” means doctor. “Observe “means see.

B) Etymological Definition

Etymological Definition assigns a meaning to a word by disclosing the word‘s ancestry

in both its own language and other languages. For example, the English word
‗‗license‘‘ is derived from the Latin verb licere, which means to be permitted.
Etymological definitions have special importance for at least two reasons. The first
reason is that the etymological definition of a word often conveys the word‘s root
meaning or seminal meaning from which all other associated meanings are derived.

C) Operational Definition

Operational Definition assigns a meaning to a word by specifying certain

experimental procedures that determine whether or not the word applies to a certain
thing.

Examples: One substance is „„harder than‟‟ another if and only if one scratches the
other when the two are rubbed together. A solution is an „„acid‟‟ if and only if litmus
paper turns red when dipped into it

D) Definition by Genus and Difference.

Definition by Genus and Difference assigns a meaning to a term by identifying a genus

term and one or more difference words that, when combined, convey the meaning
of the term being defined. It is more generally applicable and achieves more
adequate results than any of the other kinds of intentional definition. To explain how
it works, we must first explain the meanings of the terms ‗‗genus, ‘‘‗‗species, ‘‘and

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‗‗specific difference.

Species Difference Genus

Daughter means female offspring

3. The basic concept of critical thinking

Critical thinking is an essential cognitive skill that involves the ability to analyze,
evaluate, and synthesize information in a reasoned and reflective manner. It allows
individuals to make informed decisions, solve problems, and navigate complex
situations effectively. Below, we will explore the meaning and definition of critical
thinking, its basic principles, criteria or standards, principles of good arguments, traits
of critical and uncritical thinkers, and factors affecting critical thinking.

3.1 Meaning and Definition of Critical Thinking

Meaning:

Critical thinking is the process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying,

analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information gathered from observation,
experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication. It is a disciplined approach to
thought that seeks to improve the quality of one's reasoning.

Definition:

Critical thinking can be defined as "the intellectually disciplined process of actively and
skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating information
to reach an answer or conclusion." It encompasses a range of cognitive skills and
intellectual dispositions.

3.2. Basic Principles of Critical Thinking

1) The Fallibility Principle

The first principle of a critical thinking is the fallibility principle. This principle
requires that each participant in a discussion of a disputed issue should be willing to

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accept the fact thathe or she is fallible, which means that one must acknowledge that
one‘s own initial view may not be the most defensible position on the question.

2) The Truth Seeking Principle

The second principle of a critical thinking is the truth seeking principle. This principle
requires that each participant should be committed to the task of earnestly searching
for the truth or at least the most defensible position on the issue at stake.

3) The Clarity Principle

The clarity principle is the third principle of a critical thinking. It requires that the
formulations of all positions, defenses, and attacks should be free of any kind of
linguistic confusion and clearly separated from other positions and issues.

4) The Burden of Proof Principle

The fourth principle of a critical thinking is the burden of proof principle. This principle
requires that the burden of proof for any position usually rests on the participant
who sets forth the position. If, and when, an opponent asks, the proponent
should provide an argument for that position.

5) The Principle of Charity

This is the fifth principle of a critical thinking that requires that if a participant‘s
argument is reformulated by an opponent, it should be carefully expressed in its
strongest possible version that is consistent with what is believed to be the original
intention of the arguer.

6) The Suspension of Judgment Principle

The sixth principle of a critical thinking is the suspension of judgment principle. This
principle requires that if no position is defended by a good argument, or if two or more

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positions seem to be defended with equal strength, one should, in most cases, suspend
judgment about the issue

7) The Resolution Principle

The last principle of a critical thinking is the resolution principle. This principle requires
that an issue should be considered resolved if the argument for one of the
alternative positions is a structurally sound, one that uses relevant and acceptable
reasons that together provide sufficient grounds to justify the conclusion and that
also include an effective rebuttal to all serious criticisms of the argument and/or
the position it supports.

3.3. Criteria/Standards of Critical Thinking

Clarity:

Ensure that ideas are expressed clearly and are easily understood. Ask questions like
"What do I mean?" or "Can I clarify this further?"

Accuracy:

Strive for factual correctness in the information presented. Verify claims and check for
evidence.

Relevance:

Focus on information that is pertinent to the argument or issue at hand. Distinguish

between relevant and irrelevant information.

Logical Consistency:

Ensure that reasoning is coherent and follows logically from premises to conclusions.
Avoid contradictions in arguments.

Fairness:

Consider different viewpoints impartially and without bias. Be open to revising one’s

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position based on new evidence.

Relevance; the question of relevance is a question of connections. When there is a

discussion or debate, it should focus on relevant ideas and information.

Precision; Precision is a matter of being exact, accurate and careful. Most ideas are
vague and obscures though we think we have precise understanding of them

3.4. Principles of Good Argument

1) The Structural Principle

The structural principle of a good argument requires that one who argues for or against
a position should use an argument that meets the fundamental structural
requirements of a well-formed argument.

2) The Relevance Principle

This is the second principle of a good argument that requires that one who presents an
argument for or against a position should set forth only reasons whose truth provides
some evidence for the truth of the conclusion.

3) The Acceptability Principle

The third principle of a good argument is the acceptability principle. This principle
requires that one who presents an argument for or against a position should provide
reasons that are likely to be accepted by a mature, rational person and that meet
standard criteria of acceptability

4) The Sufficiency Principle

The four principle of a good argument is the sufficiency principle, which requires that
one who presents an argument for or against a position should attempt to provide
relevant and acceptable reasons of the right kind, that together are sufficient in
number and weight to justify the acceptance of the conclusion.

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5) The Rebuttal Principle

The last principle of a good argument is the rebuttal principle. This principle requires
that one who presents an argument for or against a position should include in the
argument an effective rebuttal to all anticipated serious criticisms of the argument
that may be brought against it or against the position it supports.

3.5. Traits of Critical and Uncritical Thinkers

Traits of Critical Thinkers:

 Open-mindedness: Willing to consider alternative viewpoints.

 Curiosity: Eager to learn and explore new ideas.

 Reflectiveness: Takes time to reflect on their own beliefs and reasoning

processes.

 Skepticism: Questions assumptions and seeks evidence before accepting claims.

 Intellectual Humility: Recognizes the limits of their knowledge and is willing to

revise views based on new information.

Traits of Uncritical Thinkers:

 Dogmatism: Holds rigidly to beliefs without questioning them.

 Closed-mindedness: Dismisses alternative viewpoints without consideration.

 Impulsiveness: Makes judgments quickly without thorough analysis.

 Overconfidence: Lacks awareness of their own biases or limitations in

knowledge.

 Lack of curiosity: Shows little interest in exploring new ideas or perspectives.

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3.6. Factors Affecting Critical Thinking
Cognitive Biases: Individuals may be influenced by cognitive biases that distort
reasoning (e.g., confirmation bias, anchoring bias).

Emotional Influences: Emotions can cloud judgment and affect decision-making

processes.

Social Influences: Peer pressure, cultural norms, and societal expectations can impact
one’s willingness to think critically.

Educational Background: The level and quality of education can influence critical
thinking skills; exposure to critical thinking training enhances these skills.

Environment: a supportive environment that encourages questioning and open

dialogue fosters critical thinking, while a restrictive environment may stifle it.

Experience: Prior experiences can shape how individuals approach problems and
evaluate information.

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Summary

The interplay between cognitive and emotive meanings, along with the relationship
between logic and language, underscores the complexity of human communication. By
recognizing both intentional and extensional meanings of terms, individuals can
enhance their critical thinking skills and engage more effectively in discourse.
Understanding these concepts is essential for navigating discussions in philosophy,
linguistics, and everyday communication.

There are various kinds of definitions that are actually used in our practical life. Based
on the functions they actually serve, definitions can be classified as stipulative, lexical,
précising, theoretical, and persuasive definitions. These definitions can be
produced by extensional definitional techniques, (demonstrative/ostensive,
enumerative, and subclass), and intentional definitional techniques, (synonymous,
etymological, operational, and genus and difference).

Critical thinking is a vital skill that enhances decision-making, problem-solving, and

effective communication. By understanding its meaning, principles, criteria,
argumentation strategies, traits of thinkers, and influencing factors, individuals can
cultivate their critical thinking abilities and apply them effectively in various contexts.
This skill is not only essential for academic success but also for personal growth and
informed citizenship in an increasingly complex world

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Reference

1. Alvarez-Ortiz, C. (2007). Does Philosophy Improve Critical Thinking Skills?

Unpublished

Master’s Thesis, University of Melbourne, Australia.Google Scholar

2. Anderson, J. R. (Ed.). (1981). Cognitive skills and their acquisition. Hillsdale, NJ:

Erlbaum.Google Scholar

3. Chalmers, D. J. (Year). Language, Logic, and the Brain.

4. Copi, I.M., & Cohen, C. (2011). Introduction to Logic. Pearson.

5. Facione, P.A. (2015). Critical Thinking: What It Is and Why It Counts. Insight
Assessment.

6. Moore, B.N., & Parker, R. (2017). Critical Thinking. McGowan-Hill Education.

7. Ryan, E. (2023, May 31). What Is Critical Thinking? | Definition & Examples.
Scribbr. Retrieved January 20, 2025, from https://www.scribbr.com/working-with-
sources/criticalthinking

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