Issues (What)

In CT (Critical Thinking), an issue is a matter of concern that an arguer has made or wants to make a decision about.

Here is some of the nomenclature.

Matter of Concern

Something that an arguer wants to make a decision about. Typically, this thing provokes either positive or negative feelings.

Arguer

The actor (person or group) who is thinking and making a decision.

Decision

A choice among alternative.

Key Issue (What)

The key issue is the best issue to address in the present moment.

Best: Best means that if you resolve this issue it will provide you with the most favorable outcomes and rewards and the fewest drawbacks taken in a holistic sense.

Most of the time, we have many issues (matters of concern). The key issue is one issue among the many that will provide us with the most value if we address it.

Issues (Examples)

1. Best diet?
2. Is global warming primarily human caused?
3. Best way to solve a problem?
4. What should I get done today?
5. What car should I buy?
6. How can my company drive up revenue?
7. How can I fix my computer code?
8. How should I deal with a troublesome friend?
9. Opioid Deaths in the US
   1. Why?
   2. How can we fix this?
   3. Who is responsible?

Issues (Rationale)

Here are some reasons why figuring out and resolving the key issue is worthwhile.

1. Feels great to resolve an issue.
2. Focus on what matters the most. Clarity.
3. Get the most value by addressing the most important thing.
4. Get groups of people working together because they share understanding of priorities.

Finding the Key Issue (How To)

Apply Diamond Logic using an iterative process. Here is the framework.