Unit 6: When Mathematicians English
Unit 6: When Mathematicians English
The Logic of Argument
The Logic of Argument
In this short but essential unit, students will engage with the foundational tools of logical reasoning, argument structure, and fallacy detection. Whether composing persuasive essays, evaluating complex claims in the media, or navigating daily discussions, strong critical thinking depends on the ability to distinguish sound reasoning from faulty logic. This unit empowers students to "think like logicians," breaking down arguments into their core components and examining them for validity, coherence, and credibility.
Through real-world examples, interactive presentations, and targeted exercises, students will explore how formal logic—including deductive and inductive reasoning—functions across academic, professional, and public discourse. Additionally, they will learn to identify and critique logical fallacies that weaken arguments, from common missteps to sophisticated manipulations of language and evidence. By the end of this unit, students will possess practical tools to evaluate arguments critically and construct their own with clarity and precision.
Define and apply key forms of reasoning, including deductive and inductive structures.
Recognize and deconstruct logical fallacies within real-world and academic arguments.
Construct clear, logically sound arguments using valid premises and structured reasoning.
Evaluate the credibility, consistency, and reasoning patterns within diverse texts and media.
Reflect critically on one’s own reasoning to identify cognitive biases and avoid common errors in thought.
Logical Fallacy Scavenger Hunt: Students identify and present real-world examples of logical fallacies from news articles, social media, advertisements, or public discourse.
Argument Mapping Presentation: Students construct a logical map of a chosen public argument, outlining premises, conclusions, reasoning patterns, and potential weaknesses.
Logical Analysis of Public Text: Written assignment evaluating the structure and reasoning within a significant public speech, essay, or media argument.
"Love is a Fallacy" by Max Shulman
You Are Not So Smart
Focus on cognitive biases, flawed reasoning, and the psychology of persuasion. Key episodes explore confirmation bias, motivated reasoning, and logical missteps in everyday life.
Skeptoid
Short episodes unpacking pseudoscience, conspiracy theories, and how flawed reasoning shapes belief.
CrashCourse: Critical Thinking and Logic (YouTube series)
Accessible, visually engaging breakdown of argument structure, reasoning forms, and common fallacies.
Wireless Philosophy: Introduction to Logic (YouTube series)
Bite-sized philosophy-based logic lessons from leading academics, covering formal reasoning, validity, and fallacy identification.
Kialo Debate Mapping Platform
Visual, collaborative tool for mapping complex arguments and debates, ideal for practicing reasoning structure.
Interactive poster and explanations of 24+ common logical fallacies with real-world examples.
"The Inclusion Problem in Critical Thinking: Case of Indian Philosophy" — Anand Jayprakash Vaidya
Expands critical thinking conversations beyond Western frameworks, introducing non-Western logic traditions.
"Cognitive Bias Cheat Sheet" — Buster Benson (Medium/Better Humans)
Comprehensive visual guide summarizing dozens of cognitive biases that affect reasoning and argument construction.