Checklist: Lesson 8 - Emotional Intelligence in Critical Thinking

Recognizing Emotional Influences

Identify physical signals of emotional reactions (increased heart rate, tension, etc.)

Notice cognitive signals of emotional influence (black-and-white thinking, catastrophizing)

Observe behavioral signals (urge to share content immediately, dismissing sources)

Recognize when identity and beliefs are triggering defensive reactions

Identify which emotions (fear, anger, attachment) are affecting your thinking

Pause and take deep breaths when emotions are high

Name the specific emotions you’re experiencing

Get curious about your emotional reactions rather than judging them

Create psychological distance through perspective-shifting techniques

Separate your identity from your ideas to reduce defensiveness

Set intentions before difficult conversations

Monitor your emotional state during discussions

Take breaks when emotions become overwhelming

Recognize defensive reactions in others as signals of threatened values

Acknowledge emotions before addressing arguments

Listen for concerns beneath emotional reactions

Frame ideas in terms of shared values where possible

Use “I” statements rather than accusations

Ask genuine questions rather than making assumptions

Acknowledge valid points in opposing views

Present information in ways that minimize defensiveness

Create psychological safety in discussions

Use empathy to understand different perspectives

Consider moral intuitions as valuable data points

Harness curiosity and wonder to drive deeper exploration

Recognize when appropriate skepticism is signaling potential issues

Treat emotions as information to consider, not as the sole basis for conclusions