The value of truth in a democratic society.
The final paper is an opportunity for you to reflect on and synthesize what you have learned this semester. Throughout this course you have learned about basic principles of logic and argumentation, philosophical theories of truth and how it is established, and obstacles to critical thinking such as various kinds of biases and errors in reasoning.
Despite all the different views held by people in a nation as diverse as the United States, we all have common needs. We all need healthy food, clean air and water, access to healthcare and education, good jobs, safe communities and homes, and opportunities to enjoy culture and the fruits of life.
Somehow we must be able to live together despite our different values and beliefs. Living together in a democratic society requires us to collectively discuss the issues we face and how to deal with them. This means that we need to come to a common understanding of the world we share and the goals we should pursue.
For this paper, write at least five full pages discussing what critical thinking skills and concepts you think are the most important for living together in a democratic society.
Specifically your paper should do the following:
Identify several (7-10) critical thinking skills and concepts that you’ve learned in this course that are necessary to apply when engaging in civic life, and discuss why you think they are important.
Provide examples of how these concepts and skills can be applied to a specific issue facing society (such as climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, or conducting fair elections).
Discuss the most significant takeaways from what you have learned this semester about the value of truth in a democratic society.