How do you compare approaches and perspectives?

1 Identify the purpose

The first step to compare approaches and perspectives is to identify the purpose of each one. What is the main goal, question, or problem that each approach or perspective is trying to address? How does each one define, frame, or scope the issue? What are the key concepts, terms, or criteria that each one uses? By clarifying the purpose of each approach or perspective, you can better understand their similarities and differences, as well as their relevance and validity for your own situation.

2 Analyze the evidence

The next step to compare approaches and perspectives is to analyze the evidence that each one provides or relies on. What are the sources, methods, and data that each one uses to support their claims, arguments, or conclusions? How reliable, credible, and current are they? How do they interpret, analyze, or synthesize the evidence? How do they address or acknowledge any limitations, gaps, or contradictions in the evidence? By examining the evidence of each approach or perspective, you can assess their quality, accuracy, and consistency, as well as their potential biases or errors.

3 Evaluate the reasoning

The third step to compare approaches and perspectives is to evaluate the reasoning that each one employs or follows. What are the logical steps, connections, or inferences that each one makes from the evidence to the claims, arguments, or conclusions? How clear, coherent, and valid are they? How do they address or counter any alternative or opposing views or objections? How do they justify or explain their assumptions, premises, or implications? By scrutinizing the reasoning of each approach or perspective, you can judge their soundness, strength, and persuasiveness, as well as their potential fallacies or flaws.

4 Compare the implications

The final step to compare approaches and perspectives is to compare the implications that each one has or suggests. What are the consequences, outcomes, or recommendations that each one derives or proposes from their claims, arguments, or conclusions? How relevant, feasible, or desirable are they for your own context, goals, or values? How do they align or conflict with each other or with other approaches or perspectives? How do they account for or address any ethical, social, or practical issues or challenges? By comparing the implications of each approach or perspective, you can weigh their value, impact, and suitability, as well as their potential trade-offs or risks.

Comparing approaches and perspectives is not a simple or straightforward task. It requires careful attention, analysis, evaluation, and comparison of multiple factors and dimensions. However, by following these steps and strategies, you can enhance your critical thinking and self-reflection skills and make more informed and balanced decisions.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?