What is Critical Thinking?
Critical thinking is a way of thinking which allows the person to look at a problem or a situation and be able to judge what is right or wrong through the use of logic and reasoning, beyond his own prejudices. Critical thinking requires an open minded approach in viewing things, knowing that what they know traditionally may not always be right.
Critical thinkers observe and examine the evidence at hand, and set criteria for making his judgment. It also requires rationality, the ability to come to conclusion through the use of reason and hard facts, without being affected by bias and emotion. Critical thinking also requires the individual to willingly be a critic of his own self.
Critical thinking is applicable to many situations, such as in law, science, debate, philosophy, economics, and sociology. It is also used in many practical situations such as in parenting, relationships, or in study.
To cite a simple sample of critical thinking in everyday life, think of a jar of peanuts that have been sitting in the cupboard for some time. You want to eat peanuts however the expiry date on the container indicates that it’s past its prime. You smell the contents, feel the texture, and nothing is giving any indication that it’s not safe for eating. What do you do? The process by which you come to a conclusion to eat it or not is critical thinking.
In a modern world where most conventional knowledge is being challenged in light of fresh evidence, critical thinking is essential in making humanity adapt and advance in a constantly changing environment.