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Critical Thinking And Language My Term Paper

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g., the "march" toward "freedom") was occurring as he said. One cannot have critical thinking without language, and most language at least invites critical thinking (even if critical thinking does not take place). 2) How does language empower or limit the expression of our thoughts?

Language springs from a combination of our thoughts and the context in which language is used. Language (depending, on how we choose to, or feel we must use it) can either empower or limit expression. A professor lecturing to a class may use language, either more or less effectively, to either empower or limit expression of his or her thoughts. The ability of language itself to empower or limit the professor's thoughts depends on factors like the professor's speaking skill, passion, knowledge, etc. Still, the professor has license in that context to use language to either empower or limit personal expression. Conversely, a student in the course may have as many or more thoughts on the subject, but is expected in that context, to limit expression of them. The student is not entitled to stand up and lecture, for instance, whatever his or her level of knowledge or desire. The professor, however, is expected to do so. Therefore, language and context either empower or limit human expression, depending on the situation and on decisions made by individuals to limit expression of thoughts...

Persuasion also involves convincing others that, for instance, action must be taken; something must change (or remain the same); a certain decision (instead of another decision) must be made, etc. Critical thinking about material meant to persuade involves filtering the message according to one's standards, ideas, or beliefs. On the other hand, to be "persuaded" about something objectively true (or false) requires no critical thinking. If someone states, "A week has eight days," no critical thinking is required to remain un-persuaded. However, if someone else suggests, "A week should have eight days," one may be persuaded of that, based on one's perception of what the statement means; one's own values, concerns, and reasoning, and the perceived reasoning behind the statement. Therefore, persuasion may or may not require critical thinking, depending on content and context of the intended message, the way the speaker uses language, and (in some cases) the credibility or authority of the speaker. Speakers may or not persuade audiences, too, again based on those factors.

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