Topic 7: Underlying Assumptions Flashcards
(12 cards)
What are underlying assumptions in critical thinking?
The implicit or explicit links that connect evidence to a claim — they fill the logical gap between the two.
What is the purpose of identifying assumptions?
To understand the beliefs or principles an argument depends on and assess whether the evidence truly supports the claim.
What are assumptions based on?
Our reasoning, beliefs, and what we consider relevant or credible evidence.
What should you ask to identify underlying assumptions?
What must be true for the claim to follow from this evidence?
What general principle links the evidence to the claim?
What beliefs would the author need to hold to have written this?
What are reality assumptions?
Beliefs about how the world works — based on personal experience, observed facts, and social understanding (e.g., “Education helps people find jobs”).
What are value assumptions?
Beliefs about what is right or wrong, good or bad — shaped early in life and tied to culture, family, and society (e.g., “Adolescents should respect the elderly”).
What words often indicate a value assumption?
Ought, should, desirable, unacceptable
What can happen when we face value conflicts?
We may feel torn between two beliefs we hold (e.g., feeling both compassion and judgment toward a beggar).
How do you challenge reality assumptions?
Show that the author’s views of how the world works may be debatable or incorrect by presenting alternative perspectives or facts.
Why are value assumptions harder to challenge?
They’re deeply ingrained and tied to personal identity, culture, and morality.
What 3 questions help challenge assumptions?
a. Is this assumption always true?
b. Are there exceptions where it may not hold?
c. Could others have different values?
What is the gap between evidence and claim?
The logical link that must be assumed to make the evidence support the claim — this link is the underlying assumption.
