What critical thinking strategies can be used to evaluate this scenario?

Step 1: Consider the scenario below:

A recent scandal has found your town’s mayor in a serious predicament. Videos have been released that show the mayor donating a large sum of money to an unspecified local charity. Unfortunately, this donation was made using the campaign contributions of his constituents.

The townspeople are appalled to see their contributions being mishandled and are calling for the mayor’s resignation. In his defense, the mayor has emphasized the importance of this charity’s success to the improvement of area schools.

The mayor has a long and distinguished record of helping children in need, and supporters fear this scandal may force him out of a position where he can stimulate real change.

 

Step 2: Respond with your responses to the following questions on the discussion board:

How do you define critical thinking?

What critical thinking strategies can be used to evaluate this scenario?

Do you agree with the mayor’s justifications for misusing campaign contributions? Why or why not?

Individual Response: Your response should be a minimum of 300 words and include APA citations and references, if applicable, to support quotes, statements, claims, and/or utilized sources.