Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Logical reasoning refers to the process of using rational thinking and deductive or inductive methods to analyze information, make judgments, and draw conclusions based on evidence and logical principles.
Confirmation bias refers to the tendency to seek out information that supports our existing beliefs while ignoring or dismissing contradictory evidence.
Cognitive dissonance is the psychological discomfort experienced when there is a discrepancy between one's beliefs or attitudes and their behavior. People often try to reduce this discomfort by changing their beliefs or justifying their actions.
Syllogism: A syllogism is a type of deductive reasoning in which two statements are given (the premises) from which a conclusion can be logically drawn. It is commonly used in logical reasoning tasks.