6 Ways Towards Thinking More Philosophically and Rationally

Philosophy is understood as a rational investigation of principles and truths. The content of philosophical material covered academically is trifled by the analytical strategies and critical thinking skills subsequently developed. In an attempt to explicate and define the reality in which we create and find ourselves in, cognitive techniques are unconsciously executed by sagacious thinkers. But how does one begin to think like a philosopher?

1. Constant Reassessment of Values
Perhaps, this trait leads to the stereotyping of the philosopher as liberally embracing counterculture. While having a strong set of core values is important to character, a certain plasticity of mind is necessary for lateral thinking. If you can't explain why you believe something, then dissect it. Unanalyzed, obsessive thought process results in both coarse deliberation and destructive action. This point highlights the importance of introspection.

2. Be a Skeptic and Credulous Simultaneously.
Question everything, but be open to the possibility of anything This point is less about being balanced, but more about going back and forth. True, it is usually better to avoid extremes, though the hypothetical nature of this exercise allows for its utility. Never believe something"as is," but also avoid becoming too sure of the nature of things. A philosopher is an open-minded skeptic.

3. Check for logical fallacies
Too often we are blinded by the use of complex rational that falls apart under careful analysis. In fact, common errors in reasoning often occur unintentionally and are genuine mistakes. The skill to identify these miscues is of incalculable valuable in argument and rhetoric.
Check out this excellent resource: Logical Fallacies .info