Summary
Critical thinking is trying to figure out the best way to solve a problem by using logic, reason and questioning our motives. In the first short video, the speaker used Dr. Richard Paul definition of critical thinking. He defined It as "the art of analyzing and evaluating thinking with a view to improving it." The speaker sees it as an important tool because by practicing critical thinking we can better understand the thinking of others and ours. We think all the time but never closely at how our thinking may affect our perception of the world and people. The way we think says a lot about who we are, and it's important to be a critical thinker because we should analyze our own thinking to see if the reasoning behind it is based on sound ideas, and whether or not it can be trusted.
In the second video, the speaker stated that "critical thinking teaches us how to question things rigorously, form well-reasoned coherent thoughts, arguments and how to identify bullsh*t." He also mentioned how critical thinking teaches us that it's okay to be wrong. I strongly agree with that. "Our ideas or beliefs aren't us, they don't define us." It's okay to change them based on reasoning. It shows vulnerability and humility when we do so. I'm from a family where no one likes to be wrong, or be told that they're wrong, and even when they do realize that they're in fact wrong they'd never admit it. That always bothered me. It's okay to change your mind based on new evidence, logic or reasoning. I also loved that he pointed out the logical fallacies and I plan on getting the free PDF to hang in my office. I'm not perfect and it's good to remind myself and be aware of when I make logical fallacies.
Conversation 1 Critical Thinking
3 thoughts on “Bianca Claircidor”
Hi Bianca,
It was really interesting to read your post, it showed me a deep understanding of the topic and how we should deal with it. I totally agree that the way we think says a lot about who we really are. Also, your second example reminded me a little of my family. Unfortunately, most people hate making mistakes, and sometimes, they don’t admit it because of a certain trait called “ego.” However, our role as students with better critical thinking is to overcome these errors and try to help them or in some way understand why.
Thank you,
Bill
Thank you Bill!
Yea, it’s difficult for some people to let go of the ego.
hi Bianca, it was interesting to read your idea on the topic I do agree with you on the second video, how admitting you are at fault or you are wrong isn’t a bad thing just shows that you are human we all make mistakes we aren’t perfect I also like your example about family members never wanting to admit they are wrong I can relate to that I understand that can be frustrating because with family usually they want to think they know everything which isn’t always the case