Critical thinking is the analysis of available facts, evidence, observations, and arguments in order to form a judgement by the application of rational, skeptical, and unbiased analyses and evaluation.[1] In modern times, the use of the phrase critical thinking can be traced to John Dewey, who used the phrase reflective thinking.[2] The application of critical thinking includes self-directed, self-disciplined, self-monitored, and self-corrective habits of the mind;[3] thus, a critical thinker is a person who practices the skills of critical thinking or has been trained and educated in its disciplines.[4] Philosopher Richard W. Paul said that the mind of a critical thinker engages the person's intellectual abilities and personality traits.[5] Critical thinking presupposes assent to rigorous standards of excellence and mindful command of their use in effective communication and problem solving, and a commitment to overcome egocentrism and sociocentrism.[6][7]
^Edward M. Glaser. "Defining Critical Thinking". The International Center for the Assessment of Higher Order Thinking (ICAT, US)/Critical Thinking Community. Retrieved 22 March 2017.
^Hitchcock, David (2024), Zalta, Edward N.; Nodelman, Uri (eds.), "Critical Thinking", The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Summer 2024 ed.), Metaphysics Research Lab, Stanford University, retrieved 18 August 2024
^Clarke, John (2019). Critical Dialogues: Thinking Together in Turbulent Times. Bristol: Policy Press. p. 6. ISBN978-1-4473-5097-2.
^Piergiovanni, P. R., Creating a Critical Thinker, College Teaching, Vol. 62, No. 3 (July–September 2014), pp. 86-93, accessed 26 January 2023