This is written with all due respect for Daniel Dennet. I cribbed these notes from one of his talks.
So let's say you are arguing with someone extremely smart or perhaps being asked not to think at all by some extreme rhetoric. Just pull these simple tools out and do...not...let...go.
For starters, "Reductio Ad Absurdum." Which means that you prove that something is true by demonstrating something absurd results from its denial. Water poured on your head, minus any protective wear, will make you wet. McDonalds food is not as healthy as carrots, given sensible amounts of each. Finally, because I like groups of three, "Happy" by Pharrell is a good song. No, really.
For seconds, "the Surely ding." If you hear someone say 'surely' before an argument, they are probably wearing a tweed jacket. Aside from that, if someone says 'surely' don't believe what they are about to say. Odds are that it is not quite so much of a sure thing.
Finally, try to answer "rhetorical questions." They are not meant to be answered; yet if you at least try then new ways of thinking may creep into your brain.
Given these small tools, you can actually think for yourself. Imagine that.
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