Critical Thinking

3 Pages 643 Words

Critical Thinking and Decision-Making

Most people are inclined to look at things one-sided. The ability to look at situations in different points of views allows us to think critically and make good decisions. Some may think that critical thinking and decision-making are closely related. However, I have found out that this is not always the case.
Browne and Keeley, authors of Asking the Right Questions: A Guide to Critical Thinking define critical thinking as an awareness of a set of interrelated critical questions, plus the ability and willingness to ask and answer them at appropriate times. In my opinion, critical thinking is analyzing thoughts with an open-mind and drawing a conclusion based on the information provided. In the terms of the University of Phoenix coursework, critical thinking focuses on asking questions. Identifying the reasons that support the conclusion is one of the main factors in determining the validity of the statement. The University of Phoenix text focuses on locating the information processes needed to make that decision.
When making a decision, you first need to know what it is that you are trying to find, whether it is solutions to a problem or facts about a topic. Critical thinkers must always try to keep an open mind about a situation before coming to a conclusion. Next, it is best to analyze the issue or situation. Once you have investigated by asking questions to get answers, you can make informed decisions that will help form your opinions on a subject. A good critical thinker will base their decisions upon reliable and truthful information. Critical thinking allows you to come up with new ideas rather than just working off of others and also helps you to become a valuable employee.

The Encarta World English Dictionary defines decision-making as the process of making choices or reaching conclusions. The text Asking the Right Questions: A Guide to Critical Thinking suggests â...