The Art of Logic – Book Summary
What tools do we have to cut through all of the noise and constant bombardment of information thrown at us on a daily basis? Between navigating other people’s agendas and the selective use of information that may accompany that, how can we avoid getting lost in the sea of misinformation we find ourselves in each day.
The Art of Logic – Book Summary Notes
- we need to first start by understanding how our own logic systems work within us.
- logic is broadly the process of constructing or deconstructing a complex argument by asking questions.
- Logic can be deceptive, in the same way, that the movies can. Our own cognitive biases tint the lens we see the world through. In the same way that if you buy a particular type of car, all of a sudden that’s the only kind of car you’ll notice on the road.
Logic and Arguments
- as a human being oftentimes emotions will play a part in any interactions we may have. This is not always helpful. Instead of helping us to win arguments, emotions like anger and frustration can lead to us yelling or insulting each other. Hardly a persuasive way to get your point across.
- By applying logic to our arguments instead we can be far more successful.
- often our responses to another person’s statement won’t change their views on the topic. Life is full of areas of grey and disagreement over them is bound to happen.
- Assumptions can be another damaging aspect of social interactions. By not seeking clarity and allowing your brain to fill in the gaps, you’ll revert to using cognitive biases that confirm what you already believed. (confirmation bias)
The Limits of Logic
- Logic must be applied thoughtfully to be successful. We cannot judge someone or something by rules that don’t apply or are inappropriate to them.
- As humans, our emotions will often interfere with our decision-making process. This can make it much harder to make decisions based purely on logic. The classic example is someone doing something they know is wrong but becomes swept up in the moment and does it anyway.
- Take the time to slow down if you need to and evaluate the path you are about to take.
- You also need to accept that there are times when the logical thing to do is actually the wrong thing to do. In these situations following our instincts instead can be important, even life-changing.
- Before logic can be useful, we need to work on and understand our own personal belief systems. What do we believe and how should we align our actions to that belief system?
- Logic can help us to navigate ambiguous situations and be content that at least the outcome is the one we chose.
