RESPONSIBLE THINKING

How Can We Avoid Believing Things That Aren't True?

It ain't what a man don't know that makes him a fool, but what he knows that ain't so.

- Josh Billings

The Importance of Responsible Thinking

Do we care whether our beliefs are true?

Much of the harm in the world is caused by people who think they are doing good.

Solving social problems.

Swamped by bull!

The Nature of Responsible Thinking

How is Responsible Thinking related to Critical Thinking?

Looking at the nature of truth.

Common reasons for false beliefs.

Telling the truth vs. Seeking the truth.

The Principles of Responsible Thinking

Polarization: Going too far in "taking sides".

When can we trust what other people tell us? (Major Section)

Analyzing arguments and evidence. (Major Section)

Science: a systematic approach to seeking truth. (Major Section)

Arguing should be aimed at better understanding rather than winning.

General purpose problem solving methods.

A brief list of Responsible Thinking principles

Promoting Responsible Thinking

How can we encourage Responsible Thinking for people everywhere?

Appendix

Rethinking common problems and cultural assumptions

The nature of morality and ethics

The nature of human thought