1. Define both deductive and inductive reasoning, and explain how they are different. Give examples of each to support your thinking.
2. Discuss how a person’s judgments are affected by the way choices are framed. Give an example of a choice framed in terms of gains and an example of a choice framed in terms of losses. Which decision-making strategy is likely to be used in each case? Why?
3. Explain the difference between validity and truth in deductive reasoning. Provide examples of each concept to support your thinking.
4. Compare and contrast side bias and confirmation bias. Give an example of each concept to support your thinking.
5. Why might training in media literacy be important for young people? Ground your argument in cognitive psychology concepts, and provide examples from the current media landscape to support your opinion.
6. What is the backfire effect? What cognitive factors are at work in this process? Describe a time when you have experienced the backfire effect with someone else—either exhibiting it or receiving it.
7. Explain the meaning of the statement, “Justice is what the judge had for breakfast.” What cognitive factors are implicated in this perspective? How might this impact our legal system, and what strategies could be employed to address it?
8. Compare and contrast the “system” and “type” approaches to thinking. Why do professionals generally favor one perspective over the other? Give examples of situations from each perspective to support your thinking.