Reasoning vs. Thinking

Attribute	Reasoning	Thinking
Definition	The process of using logic and evidence to draw conclusions or make inferences.	The mental process of considering or contemplating information, ideas, or thoughts.
Objective	To reach logical conclusions based on evidence and logical thinking.	To process information, generate ideas, and make sense of the world.
Process	Systematic and logical process of analyzing information and drawing conclusions.	Non-linear process involving perception, cognition, and evaluation.
Logic	Relies heavily on logical principles and deductive/inductive reasoning.	May or may not involve logical principles, can be influenced by emotions and biases.
Goal	To arrive at a valid and sound conclusion based on evidence and logical thinking.	To generate ideas, solve problems, and gain understanding.
Types	Inductive reasoning, deductive reasoning, abductive reasoning.	Critical thinking, creative thinking, lateral thinking.
Application	Used in scientific research, problem-solving, decision-making, and argumentation.	Used in problem-solving, decision-making, planning, and self-reflection.
Emotion	Emotions are generally not considered in the process of reasoning.	Emotions can influence the thought process and decision-making.
Subjectivity	Reasoning aims to be objective, relying on evidence and logical principles.	Thinking can be subjective, influenced by personal experiences and perspectives.

Introduction

Reasoning and thinking are two fundamental cognitive processes that humans engage in daily. While they are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the attributes of reasoning and thinking, highlighting their unique characteristics and how they contribute to our decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

Reasoning

Reasoning is a logical process that involves drawing conclusions based on evidence, facts, and logical principles. It is a systematic approach to problem-solving that relies on deductive or inductive reasoning. Deductive reasoning starts with general principles or premises and applies them to specific situations to reach a logical conclusion. On the other hand, inductive reasoning involves drawing general conclusions based on specific observations or evidence.

One of the key attributes of reasoning is its reliance on logical thinking. It requires individuals to analyze information, identify patterns, and draw logical connections between different pieces of evidence. Reasoning is often associated with critical thinking, as it involves evaluating arguments, assessing the validity of claims, and making informed judgments.

Another important aspect of reasoning is its objectivity. It aims to eliminate biases and personal opinions by relying on evidence and logical principles. Reasoning allows individuals to approach problems and decision-making in a rational and impartial manner, reducing the influence of emotions or subjective factors.

Reasoning is also characterized by its systematic nature. It follows a structured process, starting with the identification of a problem or question, gathering relevant information, analyzing the evidence, and finally drawing a logical conclusion. This systematic approach ensures that reasoning is thorough and comprehensive, minimizing the chances of overlooking important factors or making hasty judgments.

Furthermore, reasoning is often associated with formal logic and mathematical reasoning. It involves the application of logical rules and principles to arrive at valid conclusions. This aspect of reasoning is particularly important in fields such as mathematics, computer science, and philosophy, where precise and rigorous thinking is required.

Thinking

Thinking, on the other hand, is a broader cognitive process that encompasses various mental activities such as perception, memory, imagination, and problem-solving. It is a more general term that includes both conscious and unconscious mental processes. While reasoning is a specific type of thinking, thinking itself is a broader umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of cognitive activities.

One of the key attributes of thinking is its creative nature. It allows individuals to generate new ideas, explore possibilities, and envision alternative solutions. Thinking involves divergent thinking, which is the ability to generate multiple ideas or solutions, as well as convergent thinking, which is the ability to narrow down options and select the most appropriate one.

Thinking is also closely linked to intuition and gut feelings. It involves the ability to make quick judgments or decisions based on instinct or previous experiences. While reasoning relies on logical analysis, thinking can incorporate intuitive leaps and insights that may not be immediately explainable.

Another important aspect of thinking is its flexibility. It allows individuals to adapt their thoughts and strategies based on changing circumstances or new information. Thinking is not bound by rigid rules or structures, enabling individuals to explore different perspectives and consider unconventional approaches to problem-solving.

Furthermore, thinking is not limited to conscious processes. It includes unconscious mental activities such as automatic thoughts, habits, and biases. These unconscious processes can influence our perceptions, judgments, and decision-making without our explicit awareness.

Comparison

While reasoning and thinking share some similarities, such as their involvement in problem-solving and decision-making, they differ in several key aspects. Reasoning is a more structured and systematic process that relies on logical analysis and evidence. It aims to eliminate biases and personal opinions, focusing on objective conclusions. On the other hand, thinking is a broader cognitive process that encompasses various mental activities, including reasoning. It involves creativity, intuition, and flexibility, allowing for a more holistic approach to problem-solving.

Reasoning is often associated with formal logic and mathematical reasoning, while thinking encompasses both conscious and unconscious mental processes. Reasoning is more prevalent in fields that require precise and rigorous thinking, such as mathematics and philosophy, while thinking is a fundamental cognitive process that applies to all aspects of life.

In summary, reasoning and thinking are both essential cognitive processes that contribute to our decision-making and problem-solving abilities. While reasoning is a more structured and logical process, thinking is a broader and more flexible cognitive activity. Understanding the attributes of reasoning and thinking can help us leverage their strengths and apply them effectively in various aspects of our lives.