A Checklist for

Careful Thinking

 

 

In an age when we are surrounded by an abundance of information, propaganda without question is at the centre of news stories, research studies, visuals, reports and freelance writing. In assessing the meaning and value of any argument, story or communication, it is useful to ask a number of critical questions. Critical thinking does not mean stating opposite perspectives. It is a method to get at the truth. If that is not possible, then at least the questions listed below will help make some sense and understanding of the issues, to allow for more intelligent decision-making.

 

Category 1: What is a source?

 

ü      Can the reader or listener easily determine where the information is from?

 

ü      Is the source reliable?

 

ü      What is the viewpoint of the source itself?

 

ü      What obvious or hidden motives may be involved in telling a story or providing information?

 

ü      Is the source friendly or unfriendly to the subject matter being discussed?

 

ü      From when and where was it produced?

 

Category 2: What is the basic message?

 

ü      What is the basic point being made?

 

ü      What does the action or opinion direct the reader or viewer towards?

 

ü      Who is the intended receiver of the information?

 

Category 3: What is presented in support of the point of view?

 

ü      What statements and facts are given to support the viewpoint? (Points should be listed in answering the question.)

 

ü      Are the “facts” mainly opinions or supported by actual data?

 

ü      Can the values or assumptions that the arguments are based on be made? If so, are they correct? Explain.

 

ü      Is the reasoning for the argument made reasonable?

 

ü      Do the references consist of primary or secondary sources?

 

ü      Is any evidence given to support the “facts,” or is the evidence relevant?

 

ü      What is accidentally or intentionally admitted?

 

ü      What alternate viewpoints if any exist?

 

Category 4: How is the message conveyed?

 

ü      Are the techniques used to persuade the reader or viewer fair? Is it the intent to distract, exaggerate or mystify?

 

ü      Are the statements and arguments meant to appeal to emotion or reason?

 

Category 5: Who stands to gain?

 

ü      If the point of view presented is adopted, who or what interests stand to gain?

 

ü      Does anyone stand to lose?

 

Category 6: Conclusion

 

ü      Is the source credible? Is it authentic?

 

ü      Is bias in the document deliberate, unconscious or informed?

 

ü      Do you as the reader or listener accept or reject the viewpoint(s) given? Explain.

 

ü      What are the consequences if any of the view(s) stated?

 

ü      Is the writer or presenter knowledgeable about the subject?

 

Note: In answering the questions on A Checklist for Careful Thinking students of history should always explain the answer(s) provided.

 

Source: Adapted from Eleanor MacLean’s Between the Lines.