Critical Thinking
Critical thinking is taking in facts surrounding an issue or subject, analyzing them, and then using the information to reach a logical conclusion. Critical thinking relies heavily on evidence supported by facts and is free from personal thoughts, opinions, or emotions. To think critically, one will need to look at situations or problems from different points of view and consider outcomes and viewpoints, even if they are opposite of personal beliefs.
Heart of the Matter
The authors may view chapters 12, 13, and 14 as the "heart of the matter" because they dive deeper into what critical thinking is. Facione and Gittens (2016) state that "these chapters highlight the most profound contrasts in human thought processes." Different types of reasoning are explored and help the authors form the basis for their arguments.
In reading the chapters, there is an implication that using different reasonings helps shape
thought processes. Different reasoning allows changes in thoughts and views, causing potential issues, as Facione and Gittens (2016) suggested. Our thinking is often swayed by doubts and some outside factors, showing that, at times, it is hard to control thought processes.
Two critical concepts the authors emphasize in the chapters are inference and explanation.
Inference
can be defined as coming to a conclusion based on an analysis of evidence
and facts. An
explanation
provides a reasoning for that conclusion using supporting evidence. These concepts are significant and critical because they influence our thought processes. According to Facione and Gittens (2016), reasoning often generates internal and external qualms.
Due to the complexity of the human thought process, having honed critical thinking skills is
