Critical thinking can be defined as the process of evaluating information gained by personal experience and observation, or gathered from reliable sources, so as to arrive at beliefs and make decisions which are based on facts.
Critical thinkers value ideas and theories that are rational and supported by evidence, and they adopt a questioning approach to popular beliefs and practices. Their attitude is essentially one of reflective scepticism.
Experience shows that critical thinking is both an effective method of discovering the truth and a reliable aid when taking decisions.
Established authorities and traditional methods may be respected, but are often unreliable. We should therefore ask questions, seek out relevant evidence, and consider that evidence carefully before reaching a conclusion. Our aim should be to ensure that our beliefs and actions are always guided by the facts.
Critical thinking requires:
- The ability to identify beliefs and arguments which are not based on facts
- A willingness to seek out relevant information
- A readiness to change one’s beliefs in the light of new facts and new ideas
- Being aware of one’s own biases and prejudices
- The ability to stop and think before taking decisions
Critical thinking is not a natural ability, but one which is acquired through education and training. We should therefore strive to think critically every day so that critical thinking becomes a habit.