“Questioning the Depth of your Question�
Questioning the Depth of your Question means ascertaining if the question falls under questions of fact, questions of preference or questions of judgment. Questions of fact require only one right answer since they are based on facts.
Examples of Questions of fact:
1. What elements comprise water?
2. What is the temperature of the freezing point?
3. What is mass?
Questions of preference pertain to opinions. The answer depends on human preferences. Mere opinion here rules.
Questions of preference :
1. Which would you prefer, going to the mountains or be at the beach?
2. Which would you choose, being alone or be in a group?
3. What color do you like most?
Questions of judgment pertain to questions that require reasoned judgment. It is not merely a fact nor an opinion but a combination of both plus valid reasoning. In the questions of judgment one needs to rationally evaluate answers to the question using intellectual standards accepted universally such as clarity, depth, consistency, relevance and others. The view is based on legitimate reasons and evidence.
Questions of judgment:
1. How can we address poverty effectively?
2. How do we implement company policies?
3. Is election necessary?
February 7th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
That’s a useful way to look at it… although there IS a little blurring between the categories, as for example facts are often involved in judgment.
Omni
February 20th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Wow! What an interesting, insightful piece. Takes me back to the days in school when I studied philosophy. Thanks for sharing!
Best wishes!
-Liane Schmidt
http://www.artistspassion.com