Skillful Thinking

An Introduction to Philosophical Skills One of the most important aspects of learning, and perhaps the most neglected, is that of developing those thinking skills that enable students to analyse texts, critically evaluate arguments, construct a sound argument of their own and present that argument clearly, coherently and effectively. Aware of the lack of publications covering this aspect, a group of lecturers in Philosophy at the Rand Afrikaans University designed a set of course notes to meet this need. These notes proved so effective that they have been used as the basis for this publication. Students of all disciplines which require essay writing as a component of their courses will find this book invaluable. Written in a down-to-earth style, it guides students through the various skills outlined above, as well as offering indispensable advice regarding study and time management, exam preparation and other related issues. Each chapter offers clear examples and easy-to-understand guidelines which combine to make this book extremely practical and useful. No student should be

Introduction

1. Attitude and virtues of skilful thinking
GJ Rossouw
2. Concepts, meaning and definition
GJ Rossouw
3. Reading, understanding and judging philosophical texts
HPP Ltter
4. Reading reconstructively
PJJ van Veuren
5. Fallacious arguments
PJJ van Veuren
6. The research process
HPP Ltter
7. The bibliographic search
P Serfontein
8. Bibliography and source references
P Serfontein
9. The writing of a philosophy essay
JJ Snyman
10. Types of essays in philosophy
JJ Snyman
11. Study management
HPP Ltter
12. Time management
GJ Rossouw
13. Writing a test and taking exams in Philosophy
JJ Snyman
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