Emin Meydanoğlu

Prompts for critical and philosophical thinking

Feb 11, 20264 min read

See also: Critical Thinking, Bayesian reasoning, LLM Prompts

Here’s a detailed roadmap and comprehensive prompt list specifically designed to increase ChatGPT’s critical thinking abilities:

Roadmap to Enhance ChatGPT’s Critical Thinking:

Phase 1: Prompting for Explicit Reasoning

Initially train ChatGPT to explicitly show its reasoning process in responses.

Key Objectives:

  • Clearly state assumptions.

  • Break down problems step-by-step.

  • Explain the rationale behind every step.

Phase 2: Introducing Critical Evaluation

Encourage ChatGPT to evaluate its own answers critically.

Key Objectives:

  • Self-assess the validity and reliability of its answers.

  • Identify possible flaws, limitations, or biases.

Phase 3: Integrating Alternative Perspectives

Promote the consideration of multiple viewpoints.

Key Objectives:

  • Systematically identify and articulate different perspectives.

  • Critically compare the strengths and weaknesses of alternative views.

Phase 4: Advanced Logical & Analytical Frameworks

Introduce structured frameworks for deeper analysis.

Key Objectives:

  • Apply logical frameworks like argument mapping, Bayesian reasoning, and identification of logical fallacies.

  • Strengthen evidence-based argumentation.

Phase 5: Continuous Self-reflection

Develop a habit of iterative self-review and refinement.

Key Objectives:

  • Routinely revisit initial conclusions.

  • Actively update reasoning based on new insights.

Comprehensive Prompt List (English):

Phase 1: Explicit Reasoning

  1. Assumption Clarification

    “Clearly list the assumptions behind the following argument: [argument]. Then, evaluate whether each assumption is reasonable and justified.”

  2. Step-by-Step Reasoning

    “Analyze this problem step-by-step: [problem]. Clearly describe your thought process at each stage.”

  3. Cause-and-Effect Analysis

    “Explain the cause-and-effect relationships in the following scenario: [scenario]. Clearly outline each step in your reasoning.”

Phase 2: Critical Evaluation

  1. Self-Critical Analysis

    “Provide an answer to this question: [question]. Afterward, critically evaluate your own answer by pointing out potential flaws, weaknesses, or limitations.”

  2. Error Identification

    “Here is a solution to a problem: [solution]. Critically assess and identify where this solution might fail or be incomplete.”

  3. Bias Check

    “Answer the following question: [question]. After answering, critically analyze if there is any bias influencing your response. If so, describe the nature of this bias.”

Phase 3: Alternative Perspectives

  1. Perspective-Taking

    “Present the main argument for the statement: [statement]. Then, provide at least two alternative viewpoints, clearly explaining their strengths and weaknesses.”

  2. Opposing Viewpoints Analysis

    “Critically examine this claim: [claim]. First argue in favor, then strongly argue against it. Finally, synthesize both perspectives to produce a balanced conclusion.”

  3. Multiple Solutions Evaluation

    “Given this problem: [problem], suggest three possible solutions. Critically evaluate each solution, clearly explaining their strengths and limitations, then recommend the best one based on evidence.”

Phase 4: Logical & Analytical Frameworks

  1. Logical Fallacy Identification

    “Identify logical fallacies, if any, in this argument: [argument]. Clearly explain each fallacy and how it impacts the argument’s validity.”

  2. Bayesian Reasoning Application

    “Apply Bayesian reasoning to evaluate the probability of this claim being true: [claim]. Clearly outline prior assumptions, new evidence, and update the probability accordingly.”

  3. Argument Mapping

    “Create an argument map for this statement: [statement]. Clearly indicate premises, intermediate conclusions, counterarguments, rebuttals, and final conclusions.”

Phase 5: Continuous Self-reflection

  1. Iterative Refinement

    “Answer the following question: [question]. Reflect critically on your answer. Now, considering your reflection, refine your answer further to improve accuracy and depth.”

  2. Learning from Mistakes

    “Here was your previous answer: [previous answer]. Critically assess what mistakes or oversights you might have made. Explain clearly how you would correct or improve your reasoning next time.”

  3. Dynamic Reassessment

    “Initially, you concluded that: [initial conclusion]. Now new information has been introduced: [new information]. Critically reassess and update your conclusion based on this new evidence.”

Suggested Implementation Schedule:

  • Weeks 1-2: Focus on Phase 1 (Explicit Reasoning)

  • Weeks 3-4: Incorporate Phase 2 (Critical Evaluation)

  • Weeks 5-6: Expand into Phase 3 (Alternative Perspectives)

  • Weeks 7-8: Deepen with Phase 4 (Logical & Analytical Frameworks)

  • Weeks 9+: Ongoing Phase 5 (Continuous Self-reflection)

Evaluation & Metrics:

Evaluate ChatGPT regularly on:

  • Clarity of reasoning

  • Depth of critical analysis

  • Ability to identify biases and logical fallacies

  • Effectiveness in integrating multiple perspectives

  • Consistency in iterative improvement

This structured approach will systematically enhance ChatGPT’s critical thinking abilities, making responses deeper, more nuanced, and substantially more reflective of human-like critical thinking.

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