CT Scan: Critical Thinking Scan
How to Evaluate “Conspiracy Theories”
Season 15, Episode 2 • 21-Jun-2021
In a world where conspiracy theories abound, how can we discern what’s true—and what’s not? The answer lies in a little biblical critical thinking. Here’s how to apply the 7 Checks of Critical Thinking to make a careful, informed evaluation of any “conspiracy theory.”
Up Next in S15: Conspiracy Theories
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Are Creationists Conspiracy Theorists?
Is biblical creation a conspiracy theory? Popular culture—and even some researchers—say so. In fact, one research team concluded that not only can all creationists be called conspiracy theorists, but all conspiracy theorists can be called “creationists!” Is that true? Let’s think about it.
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Evaluating Explanations (Part 1)
If different explanations can account for the same phenomena, how can you tell which one is most likely true? That’s where a type of argument called inference to the best explanation comes in. Let’s see what these arguments can (and can’t) do, unpack what explanations are, and unearth the first t...
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Evaluating Explanations (Part 2)
If multiple explanations can account for the same observation, how can you tell which one is mostly likely true? Five criteria of adequacy can help you narrow down the best explanation: testability, fruitfulness, scope, simplicity, and conservatism. Let’s unpack each of these and see how they app...
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