Critical Thinking Approach

A Critical Thinking Approach is a thinking approach that systematically evaluates claims and evidence through logical analysis and reasoned judgment.

• Context:
  • It can (typically) involve systematic questioning of assumptions and arguments.
  • It can (often) employ evidence evaluation and logical reasoning.
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  • It can range from being a Basic Critical Analysis (e.g., claim verification) to being a Complex Critical Analysis (e.g., system evaluation).
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  • It can identify hidden assumptions in arguments.
  • It can assess evidence quality and source reliability.
  • It can detect logical fallacies in reasoning chains.
  • It can generate alternative explanations for observations.
  • It can evaluate argument strength through structured analysis.
  • It can integrate multiple perspectives in assessment.
  • It can apply metacognition to examine thinking processes.
  • It can differentiate fact from opinion and interpretation.
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• Example(s):
  • The Scientific Method, which tests hypotheses through empirical evidence.
  • The Socratic Method, which uses systematic questioning to examine beliefs.
  • The Historical Thinking Approach, which analyzes historical evidence and interpretations.
  • The Logical Analysis Framework, which evaluates argument structures.
  • The Evidence-Based Decision Making, which bases choices on data evaluation.
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• Counter-Example(s):
  • Emotional Thinking, which relies primarily on feelings rather than evidence.
  • Confirmation Bias, which selectively seeks evidence supporting existing beliefs.
  • Dogmatic Thinking, which accepts claims without questioning.
  • Intuitive Thinking, which bypasses systematic analysis.
• See: Analytical Thinking, Logical Reasoning, Evidence Evaluation, Metacognition, Argument Analysis

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