In a seminal study on critical thinking and education in 1941, Edward Glaser writes that the ability to think critically involves three things:
An attitude of being disposed (state of mind regarding something) to consider in a thoughtful way the problems and subjects that come within the range of one's experiences,
Knowledge of the methods of logical inquiry and reasoning,
Some skill in applying those methods.
Most personal and academic decisions require a basic critical thinking process. It is helpful to write your ideas and see them in front of you.
Determine what you hope to achieve as a result of the decision.
Gather information deliberately (read up on the issue, talk to knowledgeable
people), make no hasty decision.
List all realistic possibilities for each choice
- Consider the benefits/advantages.
- Consider the disadvantages.
- Foresee the worst and decide if you can live with it.
- Evaluate each choice by estimating its short and long range
consequences.
- Rank each factor in order of its importance to you, work out your
priorities.
- Make a choice.
To learn to think independently, consider the following guidelines:
Avoid making inaccurate generalizations, such as women are too emotional.
Avoid oversimplifying complex problems.
Accept that diversity of opinions exists.
Remain open to new or stronger ideas.
Withhold judgment until you are sure.
Evaluate for yourself the opinions of authorities.
Ask questions for clarification when speaking with someone who holds opposing views.
Avoid stereotyped thinking.
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