Critical Thinking Chapter 1: Categories of Disputes

Study Notes

Categories of Disputes

Points of dispute in arguments fall into four categories: fact, definition, value, and policy.
Identifying the category helps organize thoughts and address audience skepticism effectively.

Dispute of Fact

A dispute of fact arises when there is a conflict regarding what has occurred or is the case.
Examples include:
- Comparing customer return rates month-to-month.
- Investigating health outcomes related to antibiotic use in children.
- Scientific inquiries such as reactions produced by specific chemical combinations or the existence of theoretical subatomic particles.

Dispute of Definition

Occurs when a label or term is contested or interpreted differently.
Example: Determining the criteria for defining sickness in children (e.g., based on viral load, doctor visits, or school absences).
The context around definitions can introduce complexities in discussions.

Dispute of Value

Involves judgments about the worth or quality of something.
Example: Assessing the appropriateness of a certain business metric.
Criteria need to be established, justified, and verified for the evaluation.

Dispute of Policy

Centers on questions regarding the correctness of an action or approach.
Recognizing the nature of a policy dispute can streamline the use of data to advocate for changes in established policies.
Guides discussions on potential course of action or decision-making processes.

Exercises for Understanding Disputes

Example 1: “The cat is on the mat.” vs “The cat is not on the mat.”
- Point of dispute: Fact.
Example 2: “John has a new computer.” vs “No, he does not; his brother gave him his old one, which is at least three years old.”
- Point of dispute: Fact.
Example 3: Discussion on large-scale projects boosting local business versus education increasing family earnings.
- Points may intersect between value and policy, requiring analysis of both perspectives.

Description

Identify the correct categories of disputes, including fact, definition, value, and policy, to organize and strengthen your arguments. Learn how to classify points of dispute and make a case to win over a skeptical audience.