The world is experiencing a chaotic chain of events that are disrupting our normal day routines from a pandemic to a civil unrest, with plenty of events wedged in between these two tidal waves. New ideas are necessary to address controversies we are forced to resolve. Resolutions will not be easy and should not be rushed. This is when critical thinking can be beneficial.
Critical thinking can be implemented to enhance the processes of work and social institutions. What is critical thinking? Per the dictionary critical thinking,is a noun, and a disciplined way of thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded, and informed by evidence.
Critical thinking requires self discipline. Staying on track requires a combination of growth, motivation, and the ability to take an honest look at the face in the mirror, even if it makes oneself feel uncomfortable.
Critical thinking mandates deliberate and systematic processing of information that leads to better decisions, understanding obstacles and creating sustainable resolutions. Without critical thinking, it is easy for others to manipulate people, which can lead to a negative end. Just because a method worked before, it does not mean it is the appropriate choice on a different problem. There are infinite answers in the universe.
A few ideas to enhance your critical thinking process:
- consider a variety of possible viewpoints or perspectives
- accept explanations because there are fewer inconsistencies
- require evidence, stick to proven facts and follow the evidence
- do not reject unpopular views or ones that are opposite of your views
- resist manipulation and irrational appeals
- avoid snap judgments
Facts may be facts, how we interpret them can vary. Ask yourself the questions, why, how, what, where and when. Look at more than one source of information. Speak and listen to people who have a different point of view than you. Be aware of your own personal biases. Talk to people who witnessed the event or had access to the live data. Critical thinking enables us to recognize a wide range of data, and how to decipher the data, and if it is relevant to our needs.
