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Keywords

Category mistake, critical thinking, controversy, social media, reason

Document Type

Article in Response to Controversy

Theme

Facilitating Discussions of Controversial Issues in Difficult Times

Abstract

There is significant confusion about what counts as controversy, and clearing up the confusion, as well as teaching students reasoning skills to understand the confusion, may help us to once again see the virtues of discussing controversial issues in our classrooms. Specifically, I argue that we make what Gilbert Ryle (1949) terms a “category mistake” when we confuse a mere difference of opinion with a genuine controversy. Further, that we make this category mistake allows for and is exacerbated by social media and cancel culture, both of which thrive from so-called fake controversies where anyone can gain instant attention, notoriety, fame, and money.

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

Word

Type

Text

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