Question
QUESTION ONE (COMPULSORY)(30 MARKS) a) Explain any four characteristic features of a critical thinker. (8 marks) b) Briefly distinguish between philosophy in general and technical sense and then show the relationship between two branches of the latter and critical thinking. (12 marks) c) Demonstrate four ways in which critical and creative thinking are of value in education. Explain your answer with relevant examples. (12 marks) OUESTION TWO (20 MARKS) a) Identify any three intellectual virtues while demonstrating how each of them promotes societal transformation. (12 marks) b) Briefly explain any four standards upon which you would determine the worthiness or unworthiness of any given thought or philosophy. (8 marks) QUESTION THREE (20 MARKS) a) Demonstrate briefly how each the following factors prevent people from thinking critically and creatively i) Ego-centrism (3 marks) ii) socio-centrism (3 marks) iii ) Propaganda (3 marks) iv)Authoritarianism (3 marks) b) By the help of a well labeled diagram explain the standard form of argument. QUESTION I FOUR (20 MARKS) a) Distinguish between the following i) The ordinary sense of argument and logical sense of argument. (4 marks) ii) Deductive and inductive argument. (4 marks) iii) Cogent and sound argument. (4 marks) b) Explain the meaning of 'argument analysis'while stating five indicator terms that will help you identify the two main components of argument. (8 marks) QUESTION FIVE (20 MARKS) a) With reference to John Stuart Mill's essay'on liberty 'explain the role of individuality in both the personal and societal development. (14 marks) b) Outline the logic of rational and ethical decision making. (6 marks)
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Zachary
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Answer
**QUESTION ONE (COMPULSORY)(30 MARKS)****a) Four characteristic features of a critical thinker:**1. **Analytical Skills:** Critical thinkers possess the ability to analyze information objectively, breaking down complex issues into smaller parts to understand their underlying structure and identify assumptions. They examine evidence carefully and identify flaws in reasoning.2. **Open-mindedness:** They are willing to consider different perspectives and viewpoints, even those that contradict their own beliefs. They are receptive to new information and are willing to change their minds based on evidence and sound reasoning.3. **Systematic Approach:** Critical thinkers approach problems in a structured and organized way. They formulate clear questions, gather relevant information, and evaluate evidence systematically before drawing conclusions.4. **Effective Communication:** They can clearly and effectively articulate their thoughts and reasoning, both orally and in writing. They can present arguments persuasively and defend their positions with evidence and logic.**b) Philosophy in general and technical sense:*** **General Sense:** Philosophy, in a general sense, refers to a love of wisdom and a general curiosity about the world and our place in it. It encompasses a broad range of inquiries about fundamental questions of existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.* **Technical Sense:** In a technical sense, philosophy refers to specific disciplines or branches within philosophy, each dealing with a particular area of inquiry. These branches include metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic, aesthetics, and political philosophy.**Relationship between two branches and critical thinking:*** **Logic:** Logic, the study of valid reasoning, is directly related to critical thinking. It provides the tools and principles for analyzing arguments, identifying fallacies, and constructing sound reasoning. Critical thinking relies heavily on logical principles to evaluate the validity and strength of arguments.* **Epistemology:** Epistemology, the study of knowledge, is also crucial for critical thinking. It explores questions about the nature of knowledge, how we acquire it, and how we can justify our beliefs. Critical thinking requires us to evaluate the sources and quality of information, assess the reliability of evidence, and determine the justification for our beliefs.**c) Four ways critical and creative thinking are valuable in education:**1. **Problem-Solving:** Critical thinking equips students with the skills to analyze problems, identify potential solutions, and evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches. *Example:* A science student uses critical thinking to design an experiment to test a hypothesis.2. **Decision-Making:** Critical thinking helps students make informed decisions by evaluating evidence, considering different perspectives, and anticipating potential consequences. *Example:* A history student uses critical thinking to analyze primary sources and make judgments about historical events.3. **Innovation and Creativity:** Creative thinking encourages students to generate new ideas, explore different possibilities, and develop innovative solutions. *Example:* An art student uses creative thinking to develop a unique artistic style.4. **Effective Communication:** Critical thinking enhances students' ability to articulate their thoughts clearly, construct persuasive arguments, and engage in meaningful discussions. *Example:* A literature student uses critical thinking to analyze a text and present their interpretation in a well-reasoned essay.**QUESTION TWO (20 MARKS)****a) Three intellectual virtues and their role in societal transformation:**1. **Intellectual Humility:** Recognizing the limits of one's own knowledge and being open to learning from others. This fosters collaboration and open dialogue, leading to more effective problem-solving and societal progress.2. **Intellectual Courage:** Being willing to consider and engage with ideas that challenge one's own beliefs, even if they are uncomfortable or unpopular. This promotes intellectual growth and allows for the examination of diverse perspectives, which is essential for societal change.3. **Intellectual Empathy:** The ability to understand and appreciate the perspectives of others, even if one disagrees with them. This fosters tolerance, respect, and understanding, which are crucial for building a more inclusive and just society.**b) Four standards for evaluating the worthiness of a thought or philosophy:**1. **Clarity:** Is the thought or philosophy expressed clearly and understandably?2. **Coherence:** Are the ideas internally consistent and logically connected?3. **Relevance:** Does the thought or philosophy address important issues and contribute to our understanding of the world?4. **Practical Implications:** Does the thought or philosophy have practical applications that can improve human lives or contribute to societal well-being?**(The answers to the remaining questions will be provided in subsequent responses due to character limits.)**