One of the most important goals/benefits of a course in Critical Thinking is the change experienced regarding ones ability to evaluate ones own thinking. Critical Thinking is thinking about thinking, it is not just about applying what you learned to subject specific problems, but about thinking through the implications of ones ideas, and examining the presuppositions behind ones opinions.
In this assignment you will be writing a reflection essay on the following issue/claim:
Many argue that encouraging critical dissent is necessary for promoting scientific objectivity and progress. Yet despite its importance, some dissent can have negative consequences, including undermining confidence in existing scientific consensus, confusing the public, and preventing sound policy. For example, private industries and think tanks have funded dissenting research to create doubt and stall regulations. To protect scientifically sound policies, some have responded by attempting to minimize or discourage dissent perceived to be problematic. (From the Abstract to: de Melo-Martn, I. & Intemann, K. “Whos Afraid of Dissent?: Addressing Concerns about Undermining Scientific Consensus in Public Policy Developments.” Perspectives on Science, vol. 22 no. 4, 2014, pp. 593-615. Project MUSE, muse.jhu.edu/article/561197.)
Claim:
While one has every right to hold their own opinion, one does not have a right to publicly promote a view that disagrees on scientific matters with the consensus of the scientific community.
Directions:
Clearly present your position in regards to this claim. Do you agree or disagree? Discuss the assumptions that lead you to take this position, and the implications of holding this position for other beliefs and actions. What kind of objections might be leveled against your position by those who think you are wrong? How might you respond to those objections as you defend your position?
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