Critical Thinking is a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the essential skills of good reasoning, written by Canadian authors for Canadian readers. The book includes a thorough treatment of such central topics as deductive and inductive reasoning, logical fallacies, how to recognize and avoid ambiguity, and how to distinguish what is relevant from what is not. Later chapters discuss the application of critical thinking skills to particular topics and tasks, including scientific reasoning, moral reasoning, legal reasoning, media analysis, and essay writing. The book also provides access to a companion website containing additional questions, flashcards, and other useful critical thinking resources.

William Hughes' profile page

Jonathan Lavery's profile page

The late William Hughes was Professor and Chair in the Philosophy Department at the University of Guelph.

Jonathan Lavery is Associate Professor of Society, Culture, and Environment at Wilfrid Laurier University, Brantford.

“Here is a textbook of lasting value. It is accessible without being over-simplistic. It is unsurpassed in clarity and depth. And its examples, exercises, and questions for discussion offer the student unique and exciting materials for reflection and engagement.” — Ahmad Rahmanian, University of New Brunswick

“I have been using Hughes (now Hughes & Lavery) since the first edition. I have occasionally tried other texts but have yet to find one I like as much. It has all the essential materials, it’s impeccably organized, and it’s clear and accessible to our students.” — Wayne I. Henry, University of the Fraser Valley