Logic & Perception

Logic can be defined as the subject that teaches the rules for correct and proper reasoning or in simpler terms, it can be best described as common sense. Some refer to the "science" of logic but logic is really more than just a science. The science part "is the knowledge of the principles, laws, and methods of logic itself." (Dolhenty, J; 2002). Logic must be put into action or else the knowledge provided within the science of logic is of little use. "We can, therefore, also speak of the "art" of logic, that is, the practical application of the science of logic to our everyday affairs." (Dolhenty, J; 2002). Logic is not only intended to inform or instruct; it is also meant to assist in the proper use of our power of reasoning. As such, we can speak of logic as both a science and an art, a practical art meant to be applied in our everyday interactions. Critical thinking is the method used when deciding rationally what or what not to believe. It can simply be described as the process for the use of reason in the pursuit of the truth. When thinking critically one must assess all assumptions for validity and appropriateness using our logic as a basis. Although the two concepts are closely tied, it is possible for a person to be logical but not be thinking critically. In this paper we will discuss the nature of logic and how it relates to critical thinking.
Logic and Critical Thinking Critical thinking involves knowledge of the science of logic, including how to analyze information and using corrective reasoning. To think critically one must understand the source and nature of knowledge and the nature of truth. Critical thinking is the basis of the science of logic and logic is that branch of knowledge which reflects upon the nature of thinking itself. The key to thinking critically is applying logic in the process. This can often become hard to do as we find it difficult to separate out perception from reality.
Perception
Perception is "the process by which people select, organize, interpret, retrieve and respond to the information from the world around them." (Schermerhorn, Hunt & Osborn, 2003; p.2). Perceptions are our way of forming opinions about ourselves, others and everyday experiences. They serve as a filter through which information passes before it has an effect. Since perceptions are created based on everyday experience or interactions, it is feasible to deduct that we create numerous perceptions about various subjects everyday. As perceptions skewer our opinions, reactions or ideas in many ways, the quality of a person 's perceptions is very important and can determine how we respond in a given situation. In many cases, perception and reality is not the same thing.
Perceptual vs. Reality "Through perception, people process information inputs into responses involving feelings and action." (Schermerhorn, et al; p.3). A person 's personality, values or past experience all influence the perceptual process and because of this ones perception can have no basis in reality. A specific, yet simplified example of this very scenario is in the perception that was formulated about a new acquaintance. Upon meeting this person, almost instantaneously a stereotype is created based on the way he was dressed, his general appearance and the way in which he carried himself. This person was a boxer trade but had no job. He lived a hard life, raised in a rough section of Philadelphia and lived his life looking very much like a thug. The immediate perception was that he was a "no-good" who was undereducated, lacked intelligence and not motivated to do what it takes to get a jump start on his life and become a responsible member of society. A lot of assumptions and stereotypes, yes, but assumptions and stereotypes are all part of the perception process. A stereotype is simply a way to combine information in order to deal with the overload of judgments and information running through the brain at one time. A stereotype however has no place in the critical thinking process. When thinking critically, it became apparent that more evidence or facts were needed to make a logical determination of the character of the person that was already so quickly dismissed as a burden to society. As time progressed and there was more interaction with this person, it became apparent to me that this person was being done an injustice. The stereotype placed on this person was very wrong as there was much more than meets the eye; he was an intelligent man who had no job because he was a full time student, trying to be the first person in his family to earn his degree. One of his main goals was to teach his younger siblings the value of an education and the principle that one can achieve whatever they set their mind to. The stereotype that was almost immediately placed on this person had influenced my logic when making a decision as to the value of this person. Perception was not reality as stereotypes negatively affected my logical thinking process; there was no critical thinking involved. The value of thinking critically and weighing the informal logic from the informal logic became so much more apparent.
Conclusion
Logic and critical thinking, while compatible, often do not reside hand in hand. Perception and reality are often not one in the same either. Each one of these concepts has a process and ideology all its own and in order to fully understand and navigate the concepts, one must fully understand the differences in them and the process to follow to come to a rational deduction.

References
Dolhenty, J. (2002). Logic and Critical Thinking. Retrieved March 21, 2005, from http://radicalacademy.com
Schermerhorn, Hunt, and Osborn. (2003). Organizational Behavior. New York: John Wiley and Sons, Inc. 8th Edition.

References: Dolhenty, J. (2002). Logic and Critical Thinking. Retrieved March 21, 2005, from http://radicalacademy.com Schermerhorn, Hunt, and Osborn. (2003). Organizational Behavior. New York: John Wiley and Sons, Inc. 8th Edition.