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Tools of Critical Thinking: Metathoughts for Psychology

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The topic of critical thinking has always interested me, but I must confess that my curiosity in this particular book actually was piqued by its synopses and reviews (especially those below). So, in the philosophical tradition of skepticism (and as one who strives to be a good "critical thinker"), I decided to check it out for myself. To say that I was impressed would be a gross understatement. Levy's book surpassed my wildest expectations. I found myself concurring wholeheartedly with the comments of Drs. Szasz, Loftus, Taylor, Peplau, et al. (all of whom are highly respected, tenured faculty at prestigious institutions of higher learning and noted experts in relevant fields). In short, the book is a masterpiece. It is not only informative, enlightening, and a sheer pleasure to read, it is also (in stark contrast to philosophy courses in "logic") actually USEFUL as applied to real life. But don't take my (or anyone else's) word for it. See for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

I teach software testers how to explore and analyze products. I recommend this book to all my students.

I found it entertaining and insightful. But, the main thing I like about the book is that it's set up so that every chapter is a standalone tool for analysis. You can read and use one chapter without having to read any of the others. I collect books on critical thinking, and this is the only one I feel I can recommend to casual students of the art.

I came across this book by accident and ordered it due to the strength of the online reviews. However, had I had a quick browse of it first I wouldn't have.

I expected a serious attempt at systematically categorizing fallacies in thinking. What it actually is is a very rudimentary workbook for undergraduate psychology students that introduces some common failures in reasoning in a very simplistic way. For that purpose it may be fine. If you have already done much thinking or reading in this area you are likely to find this book dissapointing, and in a number of areas surprisingly naive.

Levy's book is a thoughtful, witty and ultimately compelling argument in support of developing critical thinking skills. Not only does he illuminate examples of sloppy or lazy thinking, but he provides understandable tools for sharpening the reader's critical faculties. More importantly, and without pedantry, he highlights the real perils of our current age's inclination to accept overly-simplified or fashionably vague ideas as "truths"---notions that can lead to conformity, a failure of imagination, and an inability to discern fact from opinion. I can recommend this book highly as both a text for college students, and a primer for the general reader interested in keeping the mental machinery free from cobwebs.

Although this textbook was written for students, instructors, researchers, and therapist in psychology, it is not difficult to follow. There are 30 short chapters, each devoted to a single aspect of thinking that can lead you astray.

"Part One, Conceptualizing Phenomena" - There are nine lessons on what to watch out for when describing, naming, or comparing something.

"Part Two, Explaining Phenomena" - There are five lessons on causation. Primarily, lessons in the logic needed to determine what causes an event or behavior.

"Part Three, Common Misattributions" - The next five lessons deal with errors made in judging behavior. When you observe someone's act, it is not always possible to determine why they did it, even when you think the reason is obvious; the cause may be hidden.

"Part Four, Investigating Phenomena" - When you are conducting research, these seven lessons will help you improve the validity of your results. It is all too easy for your own viewpoint and biases to distort the conclusions of your study.

"Part Five, Other Biases and Fallacies in Thinking" - There are only three lessons in this part. Errors when using prototypes, the first explanation that comes to mind, and assuming you can solve a problem by knowing its cause.

"Part Six, Conclusions" - In this last part, there is only one lesson. When making any decision, there are always trade-offs. Consider your options; for example, if you are considering this book, have you looked at similar books first?

Following these chapters is a "Metathoughts Summary and Antidote Table", which, for each chapter, gives a short one paragraph summary followed by a few antidotes to help you avoid the thinking errors covered. At the end of the book is an extensive "Glossary" of terms and concepts.

This is an exceptionally well written and helpful work on a difficult subject. It is of value not only to students and practioners in the behavioral sciences but to anyone who wishes to clarify their own thought process.

Levy's superb book will sharpen your perceptions, heighten your awareness, broaden your vision, and make you laugh along the way! Woven throughout the book is Levy's message that our ears and eyes must become attuned to the various pitches of human language and behavior -- that if we hear and see only from one level, we will miss wht is essential. After reading TOOLS OF CRITICAL THINKING, things never again appear the same.

Once in a long while, we find a book written with such penetrating insight and wisdom that it has the potential to inspire a fundamental change in the way we think. TOOLS OF CRITICAL THINKING by Dr. David A. Levy is just such a book.

Levy alerts us to the very real danger of biased and lazy thinking, which allows others the power to define our truths, validate or invalidate our perceptions and dictate the limits of our lives. Levy vigorously contends that critical thinking can help to arm us against this kind of ignorance and potential danger. Specifically, to the critical thinker, a diversity of perspectives is welcomed as a constructive challenge and an opportunity to enhance learning, tolerance and understanding. In this way, Levy's book is an invitation to move beyond the bounds of what we think we know into a larger reality. He actively encourages us to push back walls, open doors and build bridges.

I recommend this remarkable book enthusiastically and without reservation to anybody for whom the improvement of thinking is desirable.

This book is a book that should remain on our desks for a long time to come -- dog-eared, well-used, a reliable and trusted companion for our work and lives.

Dr. David Levy's book, "Tools of Critical Thinking" is a treasure trove of thought provoking, innovative ideas to assist and augment one's level of thinking and comprehending the vast amount of information that we are inundated with on a daily basis. From thinking critically about advertisements to deciphering the truth behind political statements, "Tools of Critical Thinking", is a must for anyone interested in an easy to read, humorous and very practical book.

This book is an excellent source to be used in a psychology or interpersonal communications class. It is well-written, filled with details, examples, and exercises.