Tips on how to think clearly...

I sometimes see some intriguing issues/topics posted here, with an eclectic commentary from readers which are highly intellectual and sometimes highly emotional bordering on the irrational. Well, perhaps these tips would somehow provide us a guide. If you have taken Logic 101 you may be familiar with these...

>Emotion does not settle issues of truth.
>Tradition is not always right.
>Do not give human authority figures uncritical allegiance.
>Be careful of the way you use words. Words are tools. They must be used properly and carefully.
>Do not force people into limited or false options.
>Do not use name-calling or put-downs as a debate tactic (argumentum ad hominem).
>Be careful of accusations based solely on the presumed origin of a given idea or practice (the genetic fallacy). The popularity or unpopularity of something does not make it either true or false.
>The fact that something is either an old or a new idea does not automatically make it correct (chronological snobbery).
>Be careful in the use of “guilt by association.” Do not dismiss good ideas or practices by letting your imagination take them to inappropriate extremes.
>Be prudent when using the “slippery slope” argument (not all slopes are slippery; i.e. “b” does not necessarily follow “a” in all cases.).
>Be alert to cause and effect errors (post hoc propter hoc).
>Make sure that conclusions follow from adequate evidence and support (non sequitur does not follow). Do not accept clichés or popular slogans uncritically.
>Do not “stack the deck,” i.e. only point out observations that support your pet theory, ignoring all evidence to the contrary.
>Be wary of generalization. Remember that the truth is not always in the middle.
>Do not take ideas or people out of context.
>Understand that spiritual discernment means being ready to admit to weakness or limitation in that very gift; being willing to abandon “shortcuts” in return for the demanding spiritual disciplines that produce lasting fruit; and resisting the temptation to judge the hearts of others.

(From Clear Thinking Vol. 2 No.3, Winter 1997, Stand to Reason)