Introduction

In the previous chapters, we have learned the basics of critical thinking and the most important logical elements. Now we turn to a central question: What makes an argument a good argument? The ability to distinguish good from bad arguments is a core competency of critical thinking and helps us make informed decisions and protect ourselves from manipulation.

In this chapter, we will examine the characteristics of good arguments, explain the difference between rhetoric and argumentation, consider different forms of argumentation, and learn to recognize hidden assumptions.