Critical Thinking: Statement Analysis

This essay will explain the impact and benefits of critical thinking with reference to the following statement “The implications for a better thinking society are not quantitative, but would be extraordinary.” Allen (1997), states that one cannot truly understand the world around them if they are not a critical thinker. To add on to this, Tsai (2013) claims that the world we live in is in a state of constant change and critical thinking is required to adapt in it. Firstly, the elements of critical thinking will be discussed. Secondly, the implications of critical thinking beyond university learning will be explained. Thirdly, the benefits of critical thinking will be identified.

According to Lipman (1989, as cited in Paul, Baker, Martin, Vetrano

For one to be a good critical thinker, one must possess the following skills or elements of critical thinking: Wallace, Schirato and Bright (1999) state that a good critical thinker must think creatively in the sense that they must be able to accept others’ opinions and perspectives. Tsai (2013) goes on to state that creative thinking involves, physic wholeness, integration, emotion and experience. Wallace et al. (1999) claim that a good critical thinker must be able to analyse information well, to establish the contents of it. Critical thinkers must determine how an idea connects to a topic, suggests Tsai (2013). Another skill a critical thinker must possess is the ability to solve problems. “This means systematically considering possible solutions to a problem and choosing the best of them” (Wallace, Schirato & Bright, 1999, p.46).They go on to say that good

The current world we live in is propelled by technology and information. The world now has a high demand for multiple knowledgeable skills such as the ability to analyse and assimilate information to solve various problems. This requires one to be able to deal with such issues in a prompt and efficient manner. Good critical thinkers are equipped with such needed skills, which are imperative in the modern workplace, states Rayhanul (2015). Another benefit of critical thinking in the workplace is decision making. “It involves initiating change, coping with new and unfamiliar situations, finding better ways of doing things, finding out crucial information, understanding people and institutions you work with, and solving complex problems” (Allen, 1997, p.7). Allen (1997) goes on to suggest that reasoning is used to perform the previously mentioned tasks and that if one continuously improves their critical thinking skills, they will use their abilities with more credence. In addition, critical thinking also helps improve one’s communication and presentation skills. Rayhanul (2015), states that when one thinks critically, they convey ideas in a better way. Such communication is important for any business that wants to prosper, suggests Allen (1997). Brookfield (1987) claims that critical thinking facilitates development not only