Seven Key Features of Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking的翻譯問題政府引進培育Critical thinking作為教育目標之背景一九七零年代，美國洛克斐勒基金會（Rockefeller Foundation）在一項美國生活人文研究報告中強調：教育部應訂定Critical thinking作為個人基本能力之一。

二十年後，美國總統克林頓在一九九四年簽署「美國教育法案」1，正式將Critical thinking列入全國性的教學目標。

幾年後香港也跟隨美國，在教育統籌局的課程改革短期目標中（二零零一年至二零零六年），提出優先培養學生的共通能力（即溝通能力、批判性思考能力(Critical thinking) 及創造力），並將之融入現行科目或學習領域中，以提高學生建構知識的獨立學習能力。

自此，「批判性思考」(Critical thinking) 一詞，在香港逐漸為人所熟悉。

但很可惜，本人認為由於教育當局翻譯上的謬誤，將西方提倡的Critical thinking譯為「批判性思考」，令不少學生只是按字面解釋，誤以為批評即等同思考，對很多事情還未作深入的分析，便妄下定論，對他們分辨事物的邏輯能力，帶來了負面的影響。

而縱觀整份「香港教育制度改革建議」，也未見教統局對「批判性思考」有任何明確或詳細的定義。

2「批判性思考」的學術背景何謂「批判性思考」？其實所謂「批判性思考」(Critical thinking)，並非什麼東西都批評，而是懂得分辨事物的邏輯、衡量正反兩面的因素，從而作出理性客觀的分析。

我們可以看看在一九四一年最早提出Critical thinking的美國學者Edward Glaser是怎樣為「批判性思考」下定義的3：我們認為「批判性思考」必須具備以下三項特質：一、傾向以審慎的態度思慮議題和解決難題。

二、對理性探索與邏輯推理的方法有所認識。

三、有技巧地應用上述的方法。

1Goals 2000: Educate America Act.2“香港教育制度改革建議＂（二零零零年九月）3Edward M. Glaser (1941) An Experiment in the Development of Critical Thinking, Teacher’s College, Columbia University.一九九零年，一群美國學者發表一份聯合聲明，為「批判性思考」的定義達成了共識，其大致內容如下：“我們認為「批判性思考」是一種有目的、自我規範的判斷，以解讀、分析、評核、預計，和解釋一切證據上、概念上、方法學上、標準厘定上，和背景資料上的因素，從而作出客觀的判斷……一個具有批判性思考的人，習慣性地喜歡發問和探索、對事物有全面的認知、仰賴於理性的分析、持開放的態度、懂得靈活變通、作出公正的評價、坦然面對自己的主觀偏見、審慎的作出判斷、並願意從新考慮已作出的判斷、對事物有清晰的瞭解、能有條理、有先後次序地處理複雜的事物、勤懇地做足夠的資料搜集、理性地選擇判別標準、聚焦於發問與探索，而且堅持追求在情況及環境許可下最精細、最準確的結論。

The Value of Critical Thinking Critical thinking is a valuable skill that is essential in today's society. It is the ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information in order to make informed decisions and solve problems. Critical thinking allows individuals to think logically and rationally, rather than relying on emotions or instinct. It is a skill that can be developed and honed through practice and education. One of the key benefits of critical thinking is that it helps individuals to become more independent and self-reliant. By learning how to think critically, individuals are able to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and make informed judgments. This allows them to make decisions based on reason and evidence, rather than simply accepting information at face value. In a world where misinformation and fake news are rampant, critical thinking is more important than ever. Critical thinking also helps individuals to become more open-minded and tolerant of different perspectives. By learning how to analyze and evaluate information objectively, individuals are able to consider different viewpoints and weigh the evidence before forming an opinion. This can help to reduce prejudice and bias, and promote understanding and empathy towards others. In a diverse and multicultural society, the ability to think critically is essential for fostering positive relationships and promoting social harmony. Furthermore, critical thinking is crucial for personal and professional success. In the workplace, employers value employees who are able to think critically and solve complex problems. Critical thinking skills are highly sought after in fields such as business, technology, and healthcare, where quick decision-making and problem-solving are essential. By developing their critical thinking skills, individuals can enhance their career prospects and improve their chances of success in the competitive job market. In addition, critical thinking is important for academic success. Students who are able tothink critically are more likely to excel in their studies, as they are able to analyze and evaluate information effectively. Critical thinking skills are particularly important in subjects such as science, mathematics, and philosophy, where logical reasoning and evidence-based arguments are essential. By developing their critical thinking skills, students can improve their academic performance and prepare themselves for future challenges. However, despite the numerousbenefits of critical thinking, it is a skill that is often overlooked and undervalued. In a fast-paced and information-saturated world, many individualsrely on shortcuts and heuristics to make decisions, rather than taking the time to think critically. This can lead to poor decision-making, misunderstandings, and conflicts. In order to fully realize the benefits of critical thinking, it is important for individuals to prioritize and cultivate this skill in their daily lives. In conclusion, critical thinking is a valuable skill that is essential for success in today's society. By learning how to think critically, individuals can become more independent, open-minded, and successful in their personal and professional lives. Critical thinking allows individuals to analyze and evaluate information effectively, make informed decisions, and solve complex problems. It is a skill that can be developed and honed through practice and education, and it is essential for navigating the challenges of the modern world.。

学术英语critical thinkingCritical thinking is a key component of academic English. It refers to the ability to objectively analyze and evaluate information and arguments, demonstrating a high level of intellectual rigor and independence.In academic settings, critical thinking involves questioning assumptions, examining evidence, considering different perspectives, and developing logical and well-supported arguments. It requires individuals to be open-minded, curious, and willing to challenge their own beliefs and biases.Critical thinking helps students engage critically with academic texts and sources, allowing them to identify and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of arguments and evidence. It also enables individuals to construct well-reasoned and persuasive arguments of their own.In addition, critical thinking is essential in research and problem-solving. It helps researchers identify research questions, design appropriate methodologies, and analyze and interpret data objectively. It also assists individuals in making informed and rational decisions by considering multiple viewpoints and weighing the potential consequences.Developing critical thinking skills takes time and practice. It involves honing analytical and logical reasoning abilities, improving information literacy skills, and fostering intellectual curiosity. Through critical thinking, individuals can become moreeffective learners, communicators, and problem-solvers in academic and professional contexts.。

criticalthinkingCritical thinkingIn recent years “critical thinking” has become something of a buzz word not only in education circles but also in economy or any other areas. For many reasons, educators have become very interested in teaching “thinking skills” of various kinds in contrast with teaching information and content. Of course, you can do both, but in the past the emphasis in most people?s teaching has been on the teaching content.Everyone thinks. It is our nature to do so. But much of our thinking, left to itself, is biased,distorted, partial, uninformed, or downright prejudiced. Yet the quality of our life and that of what we produce, make, or build depends precisely on the quality of our thought.Shoddy thinking is costly, both in money and in quality of life. Excellence in thought, however,must be systematically cultivated.Critical thinking is that mode of thinking—about any subject, content, or problem—in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skillfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them.1 what is critical thinking and its history1.1 John Dewey and ‘reflective thinking’In fact, people have been thinking about …critical thinking? and have been researching how to teach it for about a hundred years. In a way, Socrates began this approach to learning over 2000years ago,but John Dewey, the American philosopher, psychologist and educator, is widely regarded as the …father?of the modern critical thinking tradition. He called it …reflective thinking? and defined it as:Active, persistent, and careful consideration of a belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds which support it and the further conclusions to which it tends.To express this in more familiar language, he is saying that what matters are the reasons we have for believing something and the implications of our beliefs. It is no exaggeration to say that critical thinking attaches huge importance to reasoning, to giving reasons and to evaluating reasoning as well as possible.1.2 Edward Glaser, building on Dewey’s ideasEdward Glaser, co-author of what has become the world?s most widely used test of critical thinking, the Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal,defined critical thinking as:(1)an attitude of being disposed to consider in a thoughtful way the problems an subjects that come within the range of one’s experience;(2)Knowledge of the methods of logical enquiry and reasoning;(3)Some skill in applying those methods.Critical thinking calls for a persistent effort to examine any belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of evidence that supports it and the further conclusion to which it tends1.3 Robert Ennis-a widely used definitionOne of the most famous contributors to the development of the critical thinking tradition is Robert Ennis; his definition, which has gained wide currency in the field, is:Critical thinking is reasonable, reflective thinking that is focused on deciding what to believe or do.Unlike Dewey?s definition, this definition needs no further explanation because the words are familiar to us.1.4 Richard Paul and ‘thinking about your thinking’Richard paul gave a definition of critical thinking which looks rather different from the other definitions given above. It is: Critical thinking is that mode of thinking-about any subject, content or problem-in which the thinker improves the quality of his or her thinking by skilfully taking charge of the structures inherent in thinking and imposing intellectual standards upon them. This definition is interesting because it draws attention to a feature of critical thinking on which teachers and researchers inthe field seem to be largely agreed, that the only realistic way to develop one’s critical thinking ability is thr ough ‘thinking about one’s thinking’, and consciously aiming to improve it by reference to some model of good thinking in that domain.1.5 A final definition of critical thinkingOne last definition is worth reviewing. Michael Scriven has recently argued that critical thinking is an …academic competency? akin to reading and writing? and is of similarly fundamental importance. He defines it thus:Critical thinking is skilled and active interpretation and evaluation of observations and communications, information and argumentation.It is unusual to include explicit reference to …observation?in a definition of critical thinking, but what one sees or hears often requires interpretation and evaluation and this may well require the use of critical thinking skills. Scriven takes the term? information?to refer to factual claims, and the term …communications?to go beyond information to include questions, commands, other linguistic utterance, signals, etc. Finally …argumentation?consists of language presenting reasons for conclusions. Perhaps the most striking feature of this definition is the way it recognizes that …observations? can be matters for critical thinking.To summarize all the contents mentioned above, picture can best describe the core critical thinking skills:Why would it be of value to you to have the cognitive skills of interpretation, analysis, evaluation, inference, explanation, and self-regulation?Why would it be of value to you to learn to approach life and to approach specific concerns with the affective dispositions listed above. Would you have greater success in your work? Would you get better grades? To answer these questions, let?s come to the next part-w hy is critical thinking of value.2 w hy is critical thinking of valueActually the answer to the grades question, scientifically speaking, is very possibly, Yes! A study of over 1100 college students shows that scores on a college level critical thinking skills test significantly correlated with college GPA.2 It has also been shown that critical thinking skills can belearned, which suggests that as one learns them one?s GPA might well improve. In further support of this hypothesis is the significant correlation between critical thinking and reading comprehension. Improvements in the one are paralleled by improvements in the other. Now if you can read better and think better, might you not do better in your classes, learn more, and get better grades. It is, to say the least, very plausibleBut what a limited benefit - better grades.Right now college level technical and professional programs have a half-life of about four years, which means that the technical content is expanding so fast and changing so much that in about four years after graduation your professional training will be in serious need of renewal. So, if the only thing college is good for is to get the professional training and credential you want for some job, then you should know that what you are getting has a very time limited value.There should be other values.Critical thinking is the process of purposeful, self-regulatory judgment. This process reasoned consideration to evidence, context, conceptualizations, methods, and criteria.There is an understanding of the methods, principles, theories and ways of achieving knowledge which are proper to the different intellectual realms. There is an encounter with the cultural, artistic and spiritual dimensions of life. There is the evolution of one?s decision making to the level of principled integrity. There is the realization of the ways all our lives are shaped by global as well as local political, social, psychological, economic, environmental, and physical forces. There is the growth that comes from the interaction with cultures, languages, ethnic groups, religions, nationalities, and social classes other than one?s own. There is the refinement of one?s humane sensibilities through reflection on the recurring questions of human existence, meaning, love, life and death. There is the sensitivity, appreciation and critical appraisal of all that is good and to all that is bad in the human condition. As the mind awakens and matures, and the proper nurturing and educational nourishment is provided, these others central parts of a liberal education develop as well. Critical thinking plays an essential role in achieving these purposes.Any thing else? What about going beyond the individual to the community?。

Critical thinking is a valuable skill that is essential for success in both personal and professional endeavors. It involves the ability to analyze information, evaluate arguments, problem-solve, and make decisions based on sound reasoning. There are numerous benefits of critical thinking, and these are just a few of the most important ones.One of the key benefits of critical thinking is that it allows individuals to make well-informed and reasoned decisions. By carefully evaluating evidence and considering different perspectives, critical thinkers are better able to weigh the pros and cons of a situation and come to a thoughtful conclusion. This is particularly important in the professional world, where decision-making can have significant consequences for a company or organization.Additionally, critical thinking promotes intellectual independence and autonomy. When individuals are able to think critically, they are less likely to be swayed by emotional appeals or faulty reasoning. Instead, they are able to form their own opinions and make judgments based on evidence and logic. This independence of thought is crucial for personal growth and for the advancement of society as a whole.Furthermore, critical thinking fosters creativity and innovation. By challenging assumptions and questioning the status quo, critical thinkers are able to come up with new and innovative ideas. They are not satisfied with the way things have always been done and are constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance processes and products. This ability to think outside thebox is highly valued in the workplace and can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.Another benefit of critical thinking is that it improves problem-solving skills. When faced with a complex issue or dilemma, critical thinkers are able to break it down into its component parts, analyze the underlying causes, and develop potential solutions. This systematic approach to problem-solving is invaluable in a wide range of fields, from engineering to medicine to business management.In addition, critical thinking promotes open-mindedness and tolerance. By being willing to consider different viewpoints and weigh evidence fairly, critical thinkers are better able to engage in productive dialogue with others. They are not quick to dismiss opposing opinions and are open to changing their minds in the face of compelling evidence. This open-minded approach is essential for fostering a diverse and inclusive society.Furthermore, critical thinking is a valuable tool for lifelong learning. In a rapidly changing world, the ability to think critically and adapt to new information is crucial. Critical thinkers are able to assess the credibility of sources, differentiate between fact and opinion, and update their beliefs in light of new evidence. This flexibility and willingness to learn are essential for staying informed and making well-informed decisions.Finally, critical thinking is important for ethical decision-making. By carefully considering the consequences of their actions and weighing the ethical implications of different choices, critical thinkers are better able to act withintegrity and uphold moral principles. This ethical dimension of critical thinking is particularly important in fields such as law, medicine, and business, where decisions can have profound impacts on individuals and society as a whole.In conclusion, critical thinking is a valuable skill with numerous benefits. It promotes well-informed decision-making, intellectual independence, creativity, problem-solving, open-mindedness, lifelong learning, and ethical decision-making. These benefits are essential for success in both personal and professional endeavors and are crucial for the advancement of society as a whole. Therefore, it is important to cultivate and develop critical thinking skills in ourselves and others.。

The Importance of Critical ThinkingCritical thinking is an essential skill that allows individuals to analyze and evaluate information in a logical and rational manner. It involves the ability to question assumptions, recognize biases, and consider alternative perspectives. In today's fast-paced and information-saturated world, the importance of critical thinking cannot be overstated. It is crucial for making informed decisions, solving complex problems, and navigating the challenges of the modern world.One of the key aspects of critical thinking is the ability to analyze information and discern its credibility. In an age where misinformation and fake news abound, being able to critically evaluate the sources and validity of information is more important than ever. Critical thinking enables individuals to separate fact from fiction, helping them make well-informed decisions and avoid being misled by false or misleading information.Furthermore, critical thinking is essential for problem-solving. It allows individuals to approach challenges with a clear and rational mindset, identifying the root causes of problems and devising effective solutions. By critically analyzing the underlying factors contributing to a problem, individuals can develop innovative and effective strategies for overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.Moreover, critical thinking fosters open-mindedness and intellectual humility, enabling individuals to consider alternative perspectives and engage in constructive dialogue. In a diverse and interconnected world, the ability to understand and appreciate different viewpoints is crucial for fostering empathy, tolerance, and cooperation. Critical thinking encourages individuals to approach discussions with a willingness to listen and learn from others, leading to more meaningful and productive interactions.Additionally, critical thinking plays a crucial role in personal and professional development. It empowers individuals to take control of their own learning and growth, enabling them to become more independent and self-directed. By critically evaluating their own beliefs and assumptions, individuals can identify areas for improvement and develop a growth mindset, leading to continuous self-improvement and lifelong learning.In conclusion, the importance of critical thinking cannot be overstated. It is a foundational skill that empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern world, make informed decisions, solve problems, and engage in meaningful dialogue. By fostering open-mindedness, intellectual humility, and a commitment to lifelong learning, critical thinking is essential for personal and professional success. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of the 21st century, the cultivation of critical thinking skills is more important than ever.。

If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him, an investment in knowledge always pays the best. 1Seven Critical Decisions I Have to Make in My Life-✯Give a call to mother every night.It is the just thing that I have been doing this year. I love my mother. I want to listen to her voice every day. If I couldn’t, I will go crazy. It is her pleasant voice that makes me comfort and warm.-✯Read 10 good books at least per yearI am a keen reader. I love reading very much. I spend most of my money on books, which is quite different from other girls who would rather pay much more attention on their clothing, hair-styles and diets. My loved books may cover many aspects, such as philosophy, politics, religion, culture, and ethics.Someone once said reading good books is just like talking with many great men, which I can’t agree with more. Good books can broaden our minds. Good books can provide us with many creative and advanced ideas. Good books can remind us to learn from the mistakes that made by others. Good books can enlarge our knowledge. So we are sure to be benefited if we read the good books attentively. Learning is to the studious, so I will just do it without the slightest hesitation, as there is enough room for improvement.-✯Make several good new friends Almost everyone wants to make friends and develop friendships with others, so do I? Good friends are important in my life. They are sunshine in my heart and they are better than a lot of wealth. Good friends can share the happiness and sorrow with me. If I make any mistake, they will point it out. If I meet with difficult problems, they will help me to solve it or they just give me some valuable suggestions. What a pleasant thing it is to have so many good friends around me!-✯Get a higher degree in the next three or four yearsWith the advanced science and technology, knowledge is changing with a rapid speed in our modern society. So there is always enough room for us to improve ourselves. It is very important for every one of us to become a lifelong learner, because there will be many changes in the future. I must focus on learning knowledge and new skills, improving myself and movingIf a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him, an investment in knowledge always pays the best. 2forward. It is I who will be totally responsible for my own future!-✯Visit many interesting and beautiful placesI love to get close to nature. I can enjoy the beauty of nature, which is always beyond description. I like to go to different places for a change, as I have the capability I think to adjust to a new environment. I am also delighted to make friends with those who are come from different culture or custom. After I have traveled many of the wonderful places, I may have a more clear idea of the world and its people. Then I can really understand what life is and how to live a real life.-✯Write a great book Everyone who comes to this world should do something that can be left to the ones who come afterwards. Those who made great contributions to the world in various kinds of fields will be remembered by history and people forever. I myself want to write a great book about the future of our human beings, which may differs from any kind of the science fiction stories. I can’t say it clearly or in detail right here, because I myself even don’t know how to begin this great work at present. How can I make it a success? A lot of things are waiting for me to deal with.-✯Donate my useful organs after my deathWhen I am alive, I am a friendly and useful person to my families, my friends, my students and my country. When the death is coming close to me, I would donate all of my useful organs to benefit those who need them to live better lives. As a matter of fact, I think, it is another form of recycle of resources, or just something else like that.☺ In that case, I will always be a useful man, no matter I am alive or dead. That’s wonderful.Thank you for your patient reading! ☺Your student: LucyWang Meiling王美玲July 22, 2007。