Argue

There are two meanings of this word that need to be distinguished: 1) to argue in the sense of to fight or to emotionally disagree; and 2) to give reasons for or against a proposal or proposition. In emphasizing critical thinking we continually try to get our students to move from the first sense of the word to the second; that is we try to get them to see the importance of giving reasons (premises) to support their views (conclusions) without getting their egos involved in what they are saying.

This is a fundamental problem in human life. To argue in the critical thinking sense is to use logic and reason and to bring forth facts to support or refute a point. It is done in a spirit of cooperation and good will.