Critical Thinking Application

Critical Thinking Application

Danielle Rickards

MGT350

November 7, 2011

Robert Bridgeman

Critical Thinking Application

Critical thinking can be defined in a number of ways. Paul and Elder (2006) state “critical thinking is the art of thinking about thinking while thinking in order to make thinking better. It involves three interwoven phases: it analyzes thinking, it evaluates thinking, it improves thinking.” This definition relates critical thinking to a form of art almost whereas a dictionary may define critical thinking differently. Critical thinking is viewed and used differently, depending on the individual. According to Dictionary.com (n.d.), critical thinking is considered a “disciplined thinking that is clear, rational, open-minded, and informed by evidence.” Both definitions are correct. Critical thinking involves analyzing a situation and using evidence to determine which choice to make. Although critical thinking can be defined in various ways, the benefits of critical thinking remain the same.

Using critical thinking forces individuals to use facts or evidence to support their ideas. This helps individuals make better choices in their everyday lives. Paul and Elder’s definition of critical thinking involves analyzing a situation to improve the situation. This process forces individuals to use information and knowledge to determine which option will provide the best outcome. The dictionary’s definition is a bit more formal by relating critical thinking to discipline and evidence. Critical thinking does require discipline. There are plenty of situations in which individuals may act on impulse when they should have slowed down and used critical thinking. It takes discipline for an individual to train their mind to use specific steps in the decision-making process. Critical thinking requires individuals to be willing to leave their mind open to anything while still remaining logically and rational. Critical thinking has been considered a mode of...