Critical Thinking

What is Critical Thinking? (from criticalreading.com):

It is "only human" to wish to validate our prior knowledge, to vindicate our prior decisions, or to sustain our earlier beliefs. In the process of satisfying our ego, however, we can often deny ourselves intellectual growth and opportunity. We may not always want to apply critical thinking skills, but we should have those skills available to be employed when needed.

We are thinking critically when we

• rely on reason rather than emotion
• require evidence, ignore no known evidence, and follow evidence where it leads
• are concerned more with finding the best explanation than being right, analyzing apparent confusion and asking questions
• weigh the influences of motives and bias

• recognize our own assumptions, prejudices, biases, or point of view

• evaluate all reasonable inferences
• consider a variety of possible viewpoints or perspectives
• remain open to alternative interpretations
• accept a new explanation, model, or paradigm because it explains the evidence better, is simpler, or has fewer inconsistencies or covers more data
• accept new priorities in response to a reevaluation of the evidence or reassessment of our real interests
• do not reject unpopular views out of hand

• are precise, meticulous, comprehensive, and exhaustive
• resist manipulation and irrational appeals
• avoid snap judgments

• recognize the relevance and/or merit of alternative assumptions and perspectives
• recognize the extent and weight of evidence

In sum,

• Critical thinkers are by nature skeptical. They approach texts with the same skepticism and suspicion as they approach spoken remarks.
• Critical thinkers are active, not passive. They ask questions and analyze. They consciously apply tactics and strategies to uncover meaning or assure their understanding.
• Critical thinkers do not take an egotistical view of the world. They are open to new ideas and perspectives. They are willing to challenge their beliefs and investigate competing evidence.

For further study of critical thinking in education and life, this blogger recommends this website.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

In closing, consider that in a Christian worldview humans are sinful, we need a savior and our salvation is in Jesus Christ, not human reason. This essentially places faith over reason. Thus, can a Christian truly be a critical thinker?