Markovits, H., de Chantal, P.-L.

Logical reasoning is the ability to distinguish between possible and necessary conclusions. It is a vital component of mathematical and scientific reasoning, and it is also important for navigating the complexities of social and political life. This makes understanding how logical reasoning develops critically important both for theoretical and educational contexts. In the following, we examine some of the main approaches to the development of logical reasoning. We then present a semantic memory theory and argue that the development of reasoning in children is underpinned by the form of divergent thinking. Educational implications are then considered.