Evidence as a Habit of Mind

One of the habits of mind defined by Deborah Meier, this habit invites the question: How do you know?

Intelligent thinkers look for the facts to help them make conclusions. And when people give them their opinions, intelligent thinkers ask for their supporting evidence before accepting the opinion. They ask questions like:

• How do I know what’s true and false?
• What evidence counts?
• How sure can I be?
• What makes it credible?
• How do I know this?
• Is this convincing evidence?
• What more information do I need to understand this problem better or make this decision?
• How can I prove my point?
• Where is the proof?