A collection of skills that help us identify and solve issues using sound judgement
and a healthy dose of skepticism when analyzing a situation. Short of being a cynic,
critical thinking allows us as individuals to decipher day-to-day information through a
set of pre-determined steps that sift out unsound data.
Critical thinkers share many characteristics, among them the ability to deconstruct
complex concepts to then in turn analyze the smaller concepts. Analytical skills,
effective communication, research and inquiry skills, and open minded skepticism
are other characteristics shared by critical thinkers. Just because information is
handed from an authority, it doesn’t mean it cannot thoughtfully be questioned to a
critical thinker. Other traits such as creative problem solving, attention mindfulness
and curiosity, collaborative learning help critical thinkers synthesize new ideas.
I do agree with this week’s reading on confirmation bias being a huge hurdle when
processing information. Logical fallacies as a whole are dangerous pitfalls when
interpreting information. Avoidance is another technique used, being inside of a
echo-chamber where you only surround yourself with those that share your point of
view can be a difficult barrier to overcome.
I found the stages of a new college student, stage one being dualism through stage
three of commitment to be not only fascinating but also very spot on and a sort of
rite of passage.
