Part of the Analytical reading process.

Thoughtful disagreement.

In judging a theoretical book a reader should observe identify of or discrepancy between their own basic principles and assumptions and those of the author. For practical books, it's about goals and ends.

You can suspend judgement if the author failed to solve the problem because their analysis is incomplete, or stated an inadequate problem.

Ask questions while you read (Questions to ask while reading a book):

Is it true?

• Agreement with a theoretical books means your experience of what is or happens in the world accords with the description in the book.
• Agreement with a practical book means your understanding of what it is right to aim for and how accords with the description in the book. See Criteria of practical truth.

What of it?

• Theoretical book: adjust you mental picture. Doesn't necessarily imply action.
• Practical book: put into practice, take action: Practice what you believe is true.

Related:

• Think critically

References

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