Critical Thinking Lecture Notes: Spectrum of Authority

Introduction to the Spectrum of Authority

• Tool for understanding complex origins of opinion
• Helps chart various ways to study problems

Aspects of the Spectrum

• Scientific Fields: Geometry, Physics, Biology
• Subjective Influences: Culture, Beliefs, Feelings

Balance between Vision and Practicality

• Hot Side (Vision):
  • Appeals to feelings, beliefs, culture
  • Results in arguments that may seem:
    • Intense
    • Subjective
    • Unreliable
    • Urgent
• Cold Side (Practicality):
  • Appeals to scientific fields
  • Results in arguments that may seem:
    • Timeless
    • Reliable
    • Universal
    • Dull
• Conclusion:
  • A balance is essential for a compelling argument

Case Study: Wind Power

• Arguments For and Against: Use the spectrum of authority to analyze

Geometry Perspective

• Wind turbines occupy quantifiable, constant space

Physics Perspective

• Wind power generates renewable but inconstant energy

Biology Perspective

• Environmental concerns:
  • Wind turbines impact local wildlife
  • Can affect air quality

Cultural Perspective

• Negative impact on property values:
  • Culture perceives aesthetics as reducing value

Beliefs Perspective

• Health impacts perceived by some as negative
  • Not scientifically proven, but influences research

Feelings Perspective

• Personal feelings about aesthetics of wind turbines
  • Gut reactions and personal beliefs are valid

Conclusion

• Broad Spectrum of Authorities:
  • Useful in debate analysis
  • Helps identify origins of arguments
  • Recognizes validity of feelings and cultural perspectives

Additional Resources

• For more on critical thinking or research skills, visit the Learning Commons Study Toolkits or attend online workshops.