Critical Thinking

By Jesús Salazar

jesusrsalazar@gmail.com

December 2023

Since I discovered the existence of the concept of critical thinking, I have had the desire to explore its meaning and implications in depth.

In general terms, I believe that we are exposed to an exceptional amount of information, which sometimes seems more fun than anything else, and that critical thinking is required to process it and make sense of it.

Next, we are going to explore the concept of critical thinking using the Chat GPT4 language model as a tool. The methodology will be to provide a question (P) and then present the answer given by the Chat GPT 4 model (GPT Chat).

 

PART I: Dialogue with AI

1. Question (Q): Why is critical thinking important?

Chat GPT 4 (Chat GPT):

Critical thinking is essential because it allows us to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information objectively and reflectively. Discerning what is reliable and relevant is more important than ever in a world saturated with diverse information and opinions. In addition, it helps us make more informed decisions based on evidence rather than emotions or prejudices.

For example, imagine that you are watching an advertisement for a product that promises to be the solution to all your problems. A critical thinker would ask, “Is there evidence to support these claims? What do other sources say about this?” Instead of immediately purchasing the product, a critical thinker would do a little more research.

Components of Critical Thinking

1. Healthy skepticism: Do not accept all information at face value, but question and look for evidence.
2. Logic and Reasoning: Evaluate arguments and evidence logically.
3. Open-mindedness: Being willing to consider different points of view and change your mind in the face of new evidence.
4. Self-awareness: Recognize and question our own beliefs and prejudices.

Developing Critical Thinking

We can improve our critical thinking by practicing some habits:

1. Active curiosity: Actively seeking new information and points of view.
2. Reflective analysis: Taking time to reflect on what we read and hear.
3. Constructive dialogue: Discuss ideas with others, especially those with different opinions.
4. Constant evaluation: Reviewing and adjusting our beliefs and opinions as we obtain new information.

 

Why aren't there more rabbit superheroes?

Imagine someone tells you that eating carrots makes you see in the dark. A critical thinker might respond with humor: “So why aren't there more rabbit superheroes?”

Conclusion

Developing critical thinking improves our decision-making and enriches our lives. It allows us to approach problems more creatively and effectively and helps us navigate a complex world with greater confidence and understanding. And, of course, it allows us to separate the magic carrots from reality.

 

2. Q: Critical thinking seems to be an invisible shield that we can have and protects us from statements that have no basis in fact. With this, we would be giving too much importance to experience and leaving aside intuition and creative thinking. Is that so?

Chat GPT:

It is an interesting observation. Critical thinking often focuses on analyzing and evaluating information based on facts and evidence, giving the impression that it privileges experience and empirical knowledge over intuition and creativity. However, it is not necessarily an approach that excludes these latter aspects but complements them. Let's look at it in more detail:

Critical Thinking and Experience

Critical thinking values ​​experience because it provides a reality-based framework for evaluating new information or situations. Previous experience helps us identify patterns, understand contexts, and apply lessons learned in the past to current situations.

Critical Thinking, Intuition and Creativity

1. Intuition: Although critical thinking focuses on logic and evidence, it does not ignore intuition. Intuition can be a first sign or an initial perspective that is then further explored and evaluated with a critical approach. For example, a “hunch” can be the starting point for further investigation.
2. Creativity: Critical thinking and creativity are not mutually exclusive. Thinking critically can foster creativity by allowing us to identify erroneous assumptions, explore alternatives, and see situations from different angles. Creativity often involves combining ideas in new and surprising ways, and critical thinking can help evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of these combinations.

Balance between Experience, Intuition and Creativity

• Imagine you are trying to solve a complex problem. Experience is like having a map, intuition is like a compass that points you in a direction, and creativity is like having a helicopter that allows you to see the panorama from above. Critical thinking would be like the pilot who decides when to use the map, when to follow the compass, and when to fly high to see things from a new perspective.

Conclusion

Critical thinking does not rule out intuition or creativity; rather, it integrates them into a framework that can be evaluated and used effectively. Thus, instead of being an “invisible shield” that limits us, it is more like a “tool kit” that helps us use all our resources – experience, intuition, and creativity – effectively.

 

3. Q: At this point in the dialogue, in which we have posed two questions to focus the topic, please, before continuing could you give a broad definition of what is critical thinking?

Chat GPT:

Of course, clearly defining critical thinking is a fundamental step to understanding it in its entirety. Here, I present a broad definition:

Critical Thinking: Critical thinking is an active, reflective, and disciplined thinking process that involves analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information objectively and logically. It allows us to question assumptions, identify biases, consider diverse perspectives, and reach well-informed conclusions. Instead of passively accepting claims or automatically following personal emotions or biases, critical thinkers actively examine arguments and evidence, weigh their validity and coherence, and make judgments based on careful analysis.

Key Features of Critical Thinking:

1. Analysis: Breaking down complex information into smaller parts to better understand its structure and meaning.
2. Evaluation: Judge the credibility and relevance of information and sources.
3. Inference: Making logical connections between ideas and using those connections to reach conclusions.
4. Explanation: Be able to present and argue conclusions in a clear and structured way.
5. Self-regulation: Critically reflecting on one's own thought process and adjusting it as necessary.

Importance of Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking is essential in all aspects of life. On a personal level, it helps us make more informed decisions and avoid being deceived or manipulated. In the professional, it is essential for problem solving, innovation, and strategic decision-making. In the social and political context, it promotes an informed and critical citizenry capable of debating and participating constructively in society.

Practical Example:

Suppose you read an article that claims that a certain food is miraculous for your health. A critical thinker would look for more information: Who wrote the article? Are there scientific studies to support these claims? What do other sources say about this food? This inquiry and analysis would allow for a more informed and nuanced conclusion.

In short, critical thinking is not just a skill, but an ongoing practice that enriches our understanding of the world and improves our ability to interact with it effectively and consciously.

 

4. Q: The word “critical” seems to suggest that thinking critically means that something should always be criticized, which already gives the concept of critical thinking a negative connotation. Could you explain to us in more depth what being critical in critical thinking refers to?

Chat GPT:

It's an interesting point you raise about the connotation of the word “critical” in the context of critical thinking. In common usage, “critical” is often associated with finding fault or criticizing in a negative way. However, in the context of critical thinking, the term has a different, more constructive meaning.

Meaning of “Critical” in Critical Thinking

1. Evaluation and Analysis, not Negativity: In critical thinking, being “critical” refers to the ability to evaluate and analyze information in an objective and reflective manner. It is not about criticizing for the sake of criticizing, but about examining statements, arguments and evidence with care and rigor to determine their validity, reliability and usefulness.
2. Reflective and Deep Thinking: It involves going beyond the superficial acceptance of information. This means questioning assumptions, exploring the implications of different ideas and points of view, and seeking understanding and clarity.
3. Constructive and Rational Approach: Although it may involve identifying errors or problems in arguments or ideas, the ultimate goal is to build a more accurate and complete understanding. It is a constructive process aimed at improving our understanding and decision making.
4. Impartiality and Objectivity: Being critical in the context of critical thinking also means striving to maintain impartiality and objectivity, preventing personal biases and emotions from unduly influencing our evaluation of information.

Practical example

Imagine you come across an article claiming that aliens built the pyramids. A critical thinker would not immediately dismiss the idea as ridiculous, but would look for evidence: Is there archaeological evidence? What do history experts say? In the end, critical thinking might lead to the conclusion that, although it is an interesting idea, there is not enough evidence to support it.

Conclusion

In short, being “critical” in critical thinking is more about being inquisitive, analytical, and reflective, than about being negative or dismissive. It is an open-minded and questioning attitude that seeks to understand and evaluate information deeply and equitably.

5. Q: Critical thinking is an orderly approach to evaluating reality that seeks to discern the facts and the conclusions that can be drawn from the facts. The word rationality or rational appears frequently in this dialogue. Could you guide us on how reason, rationality, or being rational should be understood?

Chat GPT:

The relationship between critical thinking and rationality is central and fundamental. Exploring how reason and rationality are understood helps us better understand the nature of critical thinking.

Reason and Rationality: Key Concepts

1. Reason: Reason refers to the human ability to think, understand, and form logical judgments. It is the faculty that allows us to process information, make inferences, solve problems and make decisions based on logical and analytical thinking.
2. Rationality: Rationality implies the effective and appropriate use of reason. A rational person not only possesses the ability to reason, but also applies it coherently and logically to evaluate information and make decisions. Rationality is based on principles of logic, empirical evidence and internal consistency.
3. Being Rational: Being rational means applying reason consistently in thought and action. It involves being able to recognize and evaluate arguments and evidence, form well-founded judgments and act accordingly. Being rational also involves the ability to recognize when you do not have enough information and the willingness to change your mind based on new evidence or more convincing arguments.

Relationship with Critical Thinking

• Foundation of Critical Thinking: Rationality is the basis on which critical thinking is built. A critical thinker uses reason to analyze information, question assumptions, and reach well-founded conclusions.
• Beyond Logic: While rationality is often associated with logic and deductive reasoning, in critical thinking it also encompasses the ability to think creatively and flexibly. This means being able to consider multiple perspectives and potential solutions to a problem.

Practical Example

Imagine that you are evaluating the claim that a change in diet can significantly improve health. A rational approach would involve looking for scientific studies that support this claim, considering the quality and relevance of these studies, and also being open to the possibility that different people may experience different results.

Conclusion

In short, reason and rationality are fundamental in critical thinking. They allow individuals to approach information and situations in a logical, coherent, and open manner, leading to better understanding and more effective decision-making.

6. Q: It seems to me that this journey has allowed us to get a little closer to critical thinking, its meaning and implications. Could you propose a recipe for us to be better critical thinkers.

Chat GPT:

Of course, developing critical thinking skills is an ongoing and enriching process. Here I present a kind of “recipe” with practical steps to improve critical thinking:

Recipe to Improve Critical Thinking

1. Cultivate Curiosity

Ingredients: Questions, exploration, openness to new ideas.

Preparation: Ask questions about the world around you. Seeks to understand how things work and why certain events occur.

2. Practice Healthy Skepticism

Ingredients: Constructive doubt, analysis of statements.

Preparation: Do not accept information at first glance. Ask about the source, context, and supporting evidence.

3. Develop Analysis and Evaluation Skills

Ingredients: Decomposition of arguments, evaluation of evidence.

Preparation: Learn to identify the main parts of an argument and evaluate the strength of the evidence presented.

4. Improve Communication and Argumentation

Ingredients: Clarity, coherence, ability to debate.

Preparation: Practice expressing your ideas and arguments clearly and logically. Listens and responds to the arguments of others constructively.

5. Foster Empathy and Perspective

Ingredients: Understanding different points of view, empathy.

Preparation: Try to understand other people's perspectives. This can provide new insights and help challenge your own biases.

6. Reflect and Self-Evaluate

Ingredients: Self-awareness, critical reflection.

Preparation: Take time regularly to reflect on your own thinking. Recognize and work on your areas of bias or weakness.

7. Apply Knowledge into Practice

Ingredients: Real situations, practical application.

Preparation: Use everyday situations to practice and apply your critical thinking skills.

8. Maintain a Continuous Learning Mindset

Ingredients: Reading, education, exploration.

Preparation: Stay informed and educated. Read widely, attend courses or workshops, and remain open to constantly learning.

Practical example

Imagine that you are in a “thought kitchen”. Each skill is a different ingredient. Some days, you could use more of the “curiosity spice” or a little less of the “skepticism salt.” The key is to adjust your “recipe” depending on the situation and remember that even the most expert chefs continue to learn and adjust their recipes.

Conclusion

Becoming a better critical thinker is like learning to cook a complex dish. It requires practice, adjustments, and a balanced combination of ingredients. With time and practice, you can develop a more refined palate for critical thinking.

 

7. Q: Since we have learned to be better critical thinkers, we must be critical with critical thinking. Can you highlight the challenges of building and teaching critical thinking in the digital age, in which, on the one hand, wonderful scientific technological advances coexist, and also, fake news, misinformation and what sometimes worries us? Plus, many people without critical thinking.

Chat GPT:

Addressing the challenges of building and teaching critical thinking in the digital age is crucial, especially given the complexity of today's environment, where technology offers both incredible opportunities and significant challenges. Let's explore some of these challenges:

1. Overabundance of Information

• Challenge: The digital age has brought us unprecedented access to information, but this also means an excess that can be overwhelming. Distinguishing between useful, irrelevant, or false information has become more complicated.
• Teaching: Fostering skills to filter and critically evaluate information is essential. This includes teaching how to verify sources and recognize biases in information.

 

2. Disinformation and Fake News

• Challenge: Misinformation and fake news spread rapidly online, often taking advantage of people's emotions and prejudices.
• Teaching: It is crucial to teach students to be healthy skeptics and to verify claims with reliable sources and empirical evidence.

3. Groupthink and Echo Chambers

• Challenge: Social media and algorithms often create “echo chambers” where individuals only see information that reinforces their existing beliefs.
• Teaching: Promoting exposure to different points of view and constructive debate is key to combating ideological isolation.

4. Loss of Concentration and Deep Reflection Skills

• Challenge: The fast, fragmented nature of digital communication can erode the ability to concentrate and think deeply.
• Teaching: Encouraging activities and exercises that require sustained attention and reflection helps counteract this tendency.

5. Dependence on Technology to Solve Problems

• Challenge: Overreliance on technology for quick responses can diminish the ability to think critically and creatively.
• Teaching: It is important to balance the use of technology with methods that promote independent thinking and creative problem solving.

6. Need for Constant Updating in Teaching Methodologies

• Challenge: Keeping up with emerging technologies and how they affect the perception and processing of information is an ongoing challenge for educators.
• Teaching: Educators must be constantly learning and adapting, integrating new technologies and strategies into their teaching methodologies.

Practical example

Let's imagine that navigating the digital age is like being in a large supermarket full of products: some nutritious, others not so much, and some clearly harmful. Critical thinking is like having a well-thought-out shopping list and knowing how to read nutritional labels; helps you choose what really benefits your “mental diet.”

Conclusion

In the digital age, teaching and practicing critical thinking is more important than ever. It requires a dynamic and adaptive approach, both to navigate information overload and to deal with the specific challenges that technology presents. Equipping people with the skills necessary to think critically is essential for an informed and resilient society.

 

PART II: Conclusion

On this occasion, a review of critical thinking was made, its conceptualization, its implications, its way of operating, and even a quite original recipe was developed to be better critical thinkers.

The present and future challenges of critical thinking in the digital age or artificial intelligence were outlined to continue developing and improving our critical thinking.

Chat GPT:

This dialogue on critical thinking has been extensive and rich in detail, and a final consideration allows us to synthesize the key points, highlighting both opportunities and challenges, especially in the context of the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

Critical Thinking in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

1. Definition and Importance of Critical Thinking: We have defined critical thinking as an active and reflective process of analysis, evaluation and synthesis of information. It is essential for informed decision making, problem solving, and critical understanding of the world around us.
2. Balance between Reason, Intuition and Creativity: We discuss how critical thinking does not exclude intuition and creativity, but rather integrates them, allowing for a balanced and complete approach in evaluating situations and problems.
3. The Role of Rationality: Rationality, as the effective use of reason, is a pillar of critical thinking, helping to form judgments based on logic, empirical evidence, and internal coherence.
4. Challenges in the Digital Age: We address the challenges of teaching and applying critical thinking in a world saturated with information and technology, highlighting the importance of combating misinformation, echo chambers, and the erosion of concentration and reflective thinking.

Opportunities and Challenges with Artificial Intelligence

1. Expanded Access to Information: AI can help critical thinkers by providing quick access to a vast amount of information. This presents the opportunity to base decisions on a broader spectrum of knowledge and data.
2. Filtering and Analysis Tools: AI-based tools can help filter and analyze large data sets, identifying relevant patterns and trends that may not appear at first glance.
3. Challenge of Veracity and Data Biases: AI also poses challenges, especially in terms of bias in algorithms and authenticity of information. Critical thinkers must be aware of these limitations and be able to question and verify the results provided by AI.
4. Education and Skills Development: AI can be a powerful tool in education, providing personalized and adaptive learning environments that encourage the development of critical thinking.
5. Ethics and Critical Reflection on Technology: A critical thinker must be able to reflect on the ethical and social implications of AI. This includes questioning how and why technology is used, and considering its long-term impact on society.

Towards an Integrated Future with AI

Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence into our daily lives will continue to grow. This integration offers extraordinary opportunities to enhance and facilitate critical thinking, but it also requires greater responsibility in how we understand, interact with, and direct this technology. Critical thinkers will be essential in navigating this technological landscape, ensuring that AI is used in ways that benefit society as a whole and foster ethical and sustainable progress.

Final Reflection

In conclusion, in symbiosis with artificial intelligence, critical thinking can transform how we interact with information make decisions and profoundly shape our society's future. As we face the challenges inherent in this digital and technological age, the ability to think critically – reflectively, ethically, and creatively – stands out as a fundamental skill for individual success, collective well-being, and sustainable advancement of humanity.

 

JRSM