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Differing Definitions of Critical Thought

In: Philosophy and Psychology

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Running head: Differing definitions of critical thought

Differing Definitions of Critical Thought
Victor M. Fraser Capitol College

Abstract

This paper attempts to compare and contrast the differing definitions of critical thinking as defined by various writers on different publications. It appears that no matter how critical thinking is defined, the same components are standard, and the conclusions are somewhat similar and hold true. A true definition of critical thinking is by no feat an easy task. It is a complex and controversial notion difficult to define and also to study. Many definitions have been proposed by several experts. One high profile definition states, “We understand critical thinking to be purposeful, self regulatory judgment which results in interpretation, analysis, evaluation, and inference, as well as explanation of the evidential, conceptual, methodological, criteriological, or contextual considerations upon which that judgment is based ….. The ideal critical thinker is habitually inquisitive, well informed, trustful of reason, open minded, flexible, fair minded in evaluation, honest in facing personal biases, prudent in making judgments, willing to reconsider and persistent in seeking results which are as precise as the subject and the circumstances of inquiry permit.” (Facione, 1990a, p.3). As can be seen from the all encompassing definition a lot goes into determining the meaning of Critical Thought.

Differing definitions of critical thought To give a definition of critical thought has always been a perennial problem because critical thinking by itself is a contextual construct (J. Guiller, A. Durnell, and A. Ross vol. 18, p 187-200, 2007). Critical thinking often depends on our value and thought. In a particular tribe in the north of Nigeria, a woman

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