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What is Informal Logic?

 , updated on July 16, 2023
Informal logic is the objective analysis and evaluation of facts in order to develop conclusions. This differs from formal logic in that it is conducted in natural language and has no formal mathematics underpinning it as a discipline. This makes informal logic accessible to people and allows for a great range of ideas to be explored.
Critics of informal logic point out that it has no rules to guarantee that its conclusions are correct. It has further been suggested that informal logic doesn't exist and that what is commonly called "logic" is really just critical thinking.
Overview: Informal Logic
Function
Decision Making
Problem Solving
Definition
The objective analysis and evaluation of facts using natural language in order to infer conclusions.
Value
Determining conclusions from what you know and detecting fallacies.
Related Techniques
Critical Thinking
Formal Logic
Next: Rational Thought

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