Uncontrolled logic: intuitive sensitivity to logical structure in random responding. (27th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Howarth, Stephanie; Handley, Simon; Polito, Vince
• Is Part Of: Thinking & reasoning. Volume 28:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 61
• Page End: 96
• Publication Date: 2022-01-27
• Subjects: Reasoning -- intuitive logic -- dual process theory -- syllogistic reasoning -- random responding; Thought and thinking -- Periodicals; Reasoning (Psychology) -- Periodicals; 153.43
• DOI: 10.1080/13546783.2021.1934119
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1354-6783

Abstract

Abstract: It is well established that beliefs provide powerful cues that influence reasoning. Over the last decade research has revealed that judgments based upon logical structure may also pre-empt deliberative reasoning. Evidence for 'intuitive logic' has been claimed using a range of measures (i.e. confidence ratings or latency of response on conflict problems). However, it is unclear how well such measures genuinely reflect logical intuition. In this paper we introduce a new method designed to test for evidence of intuitive logic. In two experiments participants were asked to make random judgments about the logical validity of a series of simple and complex syllogistic arguments. For simple arguments there was an effect of logical validity on random responding, which was absent for complex arguments. These findings provide a novel demonstration that people are intuitively sensitive to logical structure.