Logical thinking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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logical thinking

[ˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

problem solving

The ability to think rationally and make decisions based on reason rather than emotion. It involves analyzing situations, evaluating evidence, and drawing logical conclusions.

Synonyms

critical thinking, rational thinking, reasoning.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
logical thinking	Used when discussing the process of making decisions or solving problems based on clear and sound reasoning. It often involves a step-by-step approach to reach a conclusion. To solve this math problem, you need to use logical thinking. Logical thinking helps in breaking down complex issues into manageable parts.
reasoning	General term used to describe the process of thinking about something in a logical and sensible way. It's used in both everyday and formal contexts. Her reasoning behind the decision was sound and well-thought-out. Scientific reasoning requires a systematic approach to questioning and testing.
rational thinking	Typically used when referring to making decisions based on facts and logic without being influenced by emotions. It emphasizes practical and realistic outcomes. Rational thinking is crucial during crisis situations. He approached the problem with rational thinking, avoiding any emotional bias.
critical thinking	Often mentioned in contexts where the need is to analyze facts to form a judgment. It involves questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and reflecting on the reasoning process. Critical thinking is essential for making informed decisions. The course teaches students to engage in critical thinking to question common beliefs.

Examples of usage

He used his logical thinking to solve the complex puzzle.
Logical thinking is essential in scientific research.
She applied her logical thinking skills to resolve the issue at hand.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Cognitive psychologists study logical thinking to understand how people solve problems and make decisions.
Logical thinking is closely linked to critical thinking, which involves evaluating arguments and identifying fallacies.
Research shows that practicing logical thinking can enhance overall cognitive function, including improved memory and attention.

Education

Teaching logical thinking is vital in mathematics and sciences, where structured reasoning leads to problem-solving.
Debate teams often focus on logical thinking skills to help students construct arguments and analyze different viewpoints.
Many educational programs encourage 'stem' subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) to promote logical reasoning from an early age.

Pop Culture

Logical thinking is a central theme in mystery novels, where detectives make deductions based on clues.
Logical puzzles and games, like Sudoku and chess, are popular for exercising the mind and enhancing logical thinking skills.
In movies, characters like Sherlock Holmes exemplify logical thinking, solving complex mysteries through keen observation and reasoning.

Technology

Logical thinking is fundamental in computer science, where algorithms are designed based on logical structures.
Artificial intelligence systems incorporate logical reasoning to make decisions from data much like humans do.
Programming languages are built on logical principles, requiring developers to utilize logical thinking to create effective code.

Origin of 'logical thinking'

Main points about word origin

The term 'logic' comes from the Greek word 'logos,' meaning reason or word.
The concept of logical thinking has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy, notably in the works of Aristotle, who is often called the father of logic.
The word 'rational' is often used interchangeably with logical, derived from Latin 'rationem,' which means reason.

The concept of logical thinking dates back to ancient Greece, where philosophers such as Socrates and Aristotle emphasized the importance of reasoning and logic in understanding the world. Over the centuries, the development of formal logic and the scientific method has further refined our understanding of logical thinking.