One expression of these skills is the body of knowledge and procedure identified in recent years that we have come to call Critical Thinking. Thus, in addition to argument, the other important dimension to this text is critical thinking. Critical thinking cannot be taught all at once, and there is no special formula for teaching it. It is, by all accounts, developmental. This position is typical of college freshmen.
Typical dualists believe in a fixed or single truth that is available to all.
When they are asked to choose between two or more alternatives, they are likely to do so on the basis of their belief that a particular position is right or wrong. Students in this position recognize that there are multiple views, and that it is not possible to be certain which are right. Thinkers in this position recognize that most questions and issues are complex and uncertain. They compare and evaluate competing positions, but they may not know how to choose among equally plausible and convincing alternatives. Thinkers in this position use values to choose among available alternatives.