Definition, History and Concept of Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking
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Critical Thinking
1 Defining Critical Thinking: “Critical thinking varies according to the motivation underlying it.”
2 A Brief History of the Idea of Critical Thinking: “He established the importance of asking deep questions that probe profoundly into thinking before we accept ideas as worthy of belief.”
3 Our Concept and Definition of Critical Thinking: “It involves getting into the habit of reflectively examining our impulsive and accustomed ways of thinking and acting in every dimension of our lives.”
These three quotes speak to the aspect of critical thinking. As per the first quote, critical thinking is often underpinned by people’s motives. For example, if someone is pro-abortion, they are likely to be against ideas and thoughts of anti-abortion even if they are thought-provoking and backed by evidence. I have discovered that I often fall into this trap and agree to ideas and concepts that are backed by personal or affiliate motivations. However, as stipulated by the second quote, I am training myself to slow down and take my time with decisions. I am training myself to ask questions and probe deeply, especially when moved or expected to agree with certain ideas or issues. Today, nothing should simply be accepted or considered worthy of belief without interrogating its viability. Therefore, in line with quote three, there is a need to examine our actions and consider how gullible we have been in our thinking and acting. Currently, I do many things out of what is considered ‘normal’ or ‘routine.’ However, there is a need to question these actions and affirm their independence. Often, I ask myself the ‘why’ questions because I am trying to understand why I have been ‘accustomed’ to doing certain things a certain way.
Response in Support
People grow up with a lot of ideas and beliefs that are slo...