TFY Chapter 6 Opinions

TFY CHAPTER 6 SUMMARY

OPINIONS: WHAT’S BELIEVED?

Opinions can be well substantiated or not. They can be based either on reason or solely on whim, feelings, emotions, or prejudice.
Critical thinking requires that we recognize the difference between responsible and irresponsible opinion and that we distinguish statement based on evidence from statements based solely on feelings.
People enjoy expressing and reading opinions.
Expert opinion is based on an understanding of evidence and risks in a situation and is important and highly valued.
Public opinion polls can be used to determine public sentiment on social and political issues as well as to manipulate public sentiment. This occurs when we forget that sentiment is not the same as informed opinion and that opinion polls are not subject to the same safeguards as public elections.
Opinion should not be confused with facts.
Arguments consist of supported opinions; the intent of an argument is to persuade.
In an essay, a statement of opinion can be the thesis or its principle claim.