The Concept of Critical Thinking

Definition of Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is the skill of analyzing things in an in-depth manner. It refers to the
skill of analyzing and synthesizing information that one receives. Critical thinking helps one to
question things rigorously. Through critical thinking, one can form sound and well-
reasoned thoughts. Critical thinking also enables one to identify errors in other people’s
reasoning as well as forming strong and coherent arguments that are well-founded. Critical
thinking helps people to appreciate when they are wrong and accept when they take a wrong position.
Components of Critical Thinking
There are seven components of critical thinking, namely perception, assumptions,
language, argument, emotion, logic, and fallacy. Perception is how an individual receives and
translates experiences. Perception defines how a person thinks. Perception is a filtering system
that enables individuals to filter information (Ruggiero & Ruggerio 2004). Assumptions are also
important in the critical thinking process. Assumptions are the basis for the beliefs which one
holds. Emotions are mostly left out of the critical thinking process. However, critical thinkers
acknowledge the emotions that they may attach to a particular issue at hand. Language is also
important in the critical thinking process since it denotes and connotes. The argument is defined
as the claim that is founded on facts that exist. An argument in the critical thinking process can
be deemed to be valid or invalid (Ruggiero & Ruggerio 2004).. The formation of valid
arguments is the goal of the critical thinking process. Fallacy describes reasoning that fails to

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meet the criteria for a sound argument. Logic is the process of reasoning. There are two types of
logic, namely deductive and inductive.
Importance of Critical Thinking
One importance of critical thinking is the fact that it helps one to question things
rigorously. Critical thinking ensures that one makes sound decisions that are well-reasoned.
Critical thinking enables one to sieve information. Critical thinking enables one to identify and
appreciate when they are wrong on a particular issue. Without critical thinking, one risks holding
on to ideas even when the ideas are not right. Critical thinking is liberating and ensures that one
can identify and appreciate them when they are wrong. Critical thinking helps one to challenge
societal norms and make decisions that can address the problems faced by society. Critical
thinking promotes creativity in problem-solving. Through critical thinking, one can generate
viable ideas that can help address various problems in society.
Personal Level of Thinking
I have a high level of thinking in matters that relate to work and family. However, I have
a low level of thinking in matters that relate to friends and social settings. I can improve my
critical thinking skills by being more self-aware. I need to ensure that I consider my thought
process and, in so doing, have a deeper understanding of my beliefs, ethics, and morals. Self-
awareness will help me identify areas I excel in and areas that I perform dismally. Another way I
can improve my critical thinking skills is through active listening. Active listening will help me
understand other people’s perspectives, and this will boost my thought process.

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References

Ruggiero, V. R., & Ruggerio, V. R. (2004). The art of thinking: A guide to critical and creative
thought. Pearson/Longman.