In his 2009 speech, former U.S. President Barack Obama emphasized four key skills that need special attention in the context of the new global society: problem-solving skills, critical thinking skills, entrepreneurial skills, and creative skills. And the skill that is always mentioned first is critical thinking.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to think clearly and logically about the beliefs you hold or the actions you take. It includes the ability to apply independent thinking and reflective thinking.
There are many definitions of this skill, but in simple terms, critical thinking is the ability to think in order to find reliable information, then interpret, identify, evaluate, analyze, describe, and self-adjust. So, how can we practice critical thinking? Let’s explore with HRDC!
1. Ask yourself basic questions
The world is incredibly complex. However, complex issues are not always solved with complex solutions. Overcomplicating an issue can sometimes cause you to lose focus on the core of the problem, leading to incorrect or ineffective solutions.
Start by asking small, basic questions about the things you encounter every day. Practicing critical thinking begins with curiosity, a desire for knowledge, and always seeking the truth through questions. This is the essence of critical thinking. If you don’t know what to question or don’t ask questions from the start, you will never find the answer.
2. Question basic assumptions
Mental ruts or passive acceptance of things limit a person’s potential. Therefore, questioning everything, including societal norms and traditions that have existed, will give you a more vivid and intuitive perspective on issues.
Additionally, be fair in evaluating data, evidence, and other people’s viewpoints. Use open-minded thinking and be ready to accept that your beliefs may be challenged to test existing assumptions.
3. Be aware of mental processes
Many factors influence a person’s thinking and beliefs, such as society, school, family, customs, etc. Sometimes, these factors turn into biases that constrain one’s thinking.
Therefore, self-awareness of biases and actively expanding your worldview are two methods that can help you overcome established perspectives and think beyond preconceived ideas when processing information about specific things or events. Also, find your specific way of thinking to limit dependence on others. Ultimately, practicing critical thinking is about understanding your thoughts and mastering them according to your own desires.
4. Try reversing things
When solving a problem, you need additional questions to make it more complete. Look at the problem from various angles to avoid unexpected situations that may arise beyond your initial thoughts. This is also a way to approach problems more thoroughly and prevent mistakes. Asking questions about everything, including societal norms and traditions, is how you challenge yourself and train your critical thinking.
5. Evaluate the existing evidence
Everything you are seeking, every question you ask, has likely been studied or shared by someone else. The human brain makes assumptions about everything around us based on the information we receive in daily life. What happens if that assumption is wrong or not entirely accurate?
To address this, you must always question the assumptions that exist. This allows you to find answers for yourself, change your initial judgments, and continually improve your critical thinking skills through challenges and refining your thought process.
6. Master the knowledge
To master something, you must think. The knowledge and skills shared are ultimately those of the researchers, creators, or those who convey them. Therefore, to deeply understand an issue, you need to present your own opinions and viewpoints. Think systematically, consider many aspects of a problem, and examine each aspect in a broader context, with the ability to detect (and avoid) logical fallacies.
Additionally, use evidence, logic, and reasoning to support your arguments. When faced with large amounts of information, be cautious in evaluating opinions and data, considering them from multiple perspectives.
7. Understand that no one thinks critically 100% of the time
Critical thinking is not innate; it requires a long process of cultivation and improvement. Besides the methods mentioned, you can practice critical thinking by learning from useful materials such as books and articles, continually improving, learning, presenting information in diagrams, applying logical reasoning, and connecting with people who are more skilled than you.
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