[Mannosuke]

Just picked up a book recommended by some people.

What is critical thinking? Is it thinking outside of the box? What comes to mind when someone asks you to "critically think" about a topic?

We would probably say "critical thinking" and "creative thinking" are polar opposites. True?

[eternal_bliss]

Critical thinking is using logic and other intellectual abilities. You compare, classify, critique, predict, etc. Creative thinking is more along the lines of coming up with original or new ideas. So critical thinking is when we reflect or analyze others' ideas, whereas creative thinking is what we use when we create ideas that are new. In critical thinking, we're try to assess the underlying meaning of what is said or expressed.

I'm curious -- what book are you reading?

[Mannosuke]

The power of critical thinking - Lewis Vaughn.

Most of the concepts are already familiar to me. I'm more interested in how he chooses to explain it.

[randomdiscussionblog]

Critical thinking equates to the act of carefully assessing the truth value of the object of your thought.

[Mannosuke]

Hence, there is a certain criteria that we follow when we critically think about something.
Then again, what's important is not what you think, but how you think, and therefore it's important to know what that process is.

[trickx]

Ahh yes critical thinking ...

Personally, I think you should start from first principles. Philosophical concepts and postmodernist views would expand your thought processes so much more. This will allow to you to attain a better understanding of the intangible and metaphysical implications of the human condition.

The Mind of God - Paul Davies is a good start. I strongly recommend it.