Life can be so complex, so messy, that there are times when you metaphorically "fly by the seat of your pants" in much of what you do. But, can you imagine how things might be different if you took just a few more moments than usual in which to consider and sort out your thoughts and feelings and your problems and challenges, from more than one perspective? And, then, imagine the freedom and ability you would have by which make your decisions, choices and changes a little more deliberately and qualitatively! You have just imagined the basic framework for what is called "critical thinking."
The "critical" part of critical thinking does not mean to be complaining or fault-finding about something. It means, rather, to use what are called your "critical" abilities or faculties, like more accurate perception methods, analytical skills, fuller and more accurate information and logic, as well as your imagination. This is very much what automotive mechanics and physicians do when they diagnose a problem vehicle or a sick person respectively. Persons familiar in any field or area of expertise learn to approach their particular issues with "critical abilities" so as to make better, more effective, even professional decisions (as distinct from amateur or casual decisions).
The "thinking" part of critical thinking can include some intuitive activity, too, but it greatly involves the intellectual or mental abilities at perceiving and processing information, knowledge, data and circumstances of all sorts. One is successful at this when he or she can actually express the various components of the issue at hand, including the recognition of the problem, the various relevant data and information, a solution or resolution, and an explanation or rationale for it all. One cannot always put feelings into words, but one ought to be able to put critical thoughts into words.
Thus, critical thinking is challenging work and it takes genuine skill, even if some individuals make it seem effortless. Innate skills are helpful, but learned skills are crucial, too. To perceive in effective ways, to make intellectual and intuitive connections, to process information, to analyze the various components of an issue, to imagine different aspects of reality and of what might be, to proceed logically among numerous ideas, to articulate a resolution, insight, or position, and then to explain "why?" one has arrived at that point - such is what effective and successful critical thinkers do as ordinary behavior. Critical thinking is appropriately involved in just about every worthwhile life endeavor.
So, why study critical thinking? Because to engage every aspect of life effectively, you must be somewhat competent and able. Life is messy, but it is very manageable. And it must be engaged. To avoid life's messiness is a sign of personal trouble. But, to engage life fully, to embrace reality in a wise and healthy (yes, "critical") manner, and to wrestle with it - that's living! Healthy, balanced people try with all their might to make "good sense" a way of life. Critical thinking seeks good sense. Good sense and healthy life go together.
For more information and for the opportunity to arrange for a seminar on Critical Thinking go to http://www.winthink.net and click on the Critical Thinking web page. Author & presenter: Nathan Mamo.
