chapter summary:
1. although the word opinion is a common one, it is just as commonly misunderstood, since the same word covers so many varieties of thoughts, ranging from expert judgements to expressions of sentiment or personal taste.
2. opinions can be well substantiated or not. they can be based either on reasons or solely on whim, feelings, emotions, or prejudice.
3. critical thinking requires that we recognize the difference between responsible and irresponsible opinion and that we distinguish statements based on evidence from statements based solely on feelings.
4. people enjoys expressing and reading opinions.
5. public opinion polls can be used to determine public sentiment. this occurs when we forget that sentiment is not the same as informed opinion and that opinion polls are not subject to the same safeguards as public elections.
6. opinions should not be confused with facts.
7. arguments consist of supported opinions; the intent of an argument is to persuade.
8. in an essay, a statement of opinion can be the thesis or its principle claim.
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