1. According to the text, how do the views of stronger, more developed critical thinkers toward authority differ from those in earlier stages of cognitive development? (pg. 116- 117) Our text explains that folks in the earlier stages of cognitive development view authority as someone who is powerful and capable of controlling others' behavior, or as someone trustworthy, who can offer good advice (Facione & Gittens, 2016). For example, parents and teachers have authority over children, police have authority over the general public, and ministers have authority in their church. However, strong critical thinkers understand that because the term authority is vague and has two meanings that it divulges problematic ambiguity (2016). More advanced critical thinkers view authority as someone who offers expertise. Facione and Gittens note, "the authorities we may wish to trust are those with expertise (2016)." Lastly, more advanced critical thinkers have a sense of skepticism, do not trust easily, and "understand that some reasons, perspectives, and theories are actually superior to others (2016, p. 116)." 2. Briefly, in your own words, state how the text defines “expert.” (pg. 134) Expert is defined as someone who is highly knowledgeable and proficient in a distinct, skillful and trained environment, or in a specific subject matter area (Facione & Gittens, 2016). 3. When presented with a claim unsupported by reasons (for example, “the health risks of vaping have been underestimated”), what three options does a critical thinker have to evaluate such a claim? (pg. 115-116 – last sentence on 115, going into 116) The three options the critical thinker has to evaluate are: How can we use our critical thinking skills to evaluate the credibility of the source of the claim? Whom should we trust? Whom should we not trust? 4. Is the following statement true or untrue? Explain your answer. “If a claim cannot be confirmed by an independent investigation, then it must be false.” (pg. 130- 131) I think the following statement is untrue. I feel that there should be more than one avenue for investigation. This allows for verification of the proposed claims. Also, I do not feel that the lack of endorsement from an independent inquiry is adequate enough to discredit a claim. The accuracy or falsehood of claim is not d