Defining Critical Thought

In the eyes of many, critical thinking is the highest form of intelligence we can reach. Theoretically with this skill one can tackle any subject and master it regardless of how much practical knowledge they had on the subject at the start. In an effort to improve society many institutions attempt to teach this skill. However, teaching critical thought is difficult because not many people agree on how to define this ability. 

There are 3 skills that I find key in having the power to think critically, and therefore I define critical thought with these. The first is the ability to take in information. One must be able to find, process, and understand what outside sources are telling them. This may include organizing information in a systematic manner or summarizing it, but regardless of the method you will know exactly what your subject deals with. The second skill involves making connections based on the information at hand. "Where else have you seen this, and how can you apply what you learned then?" be creative and make connections no one has ever though of. Finally is the ability to make a decision. Take a stand and defend it, know that after all your hard work, your conclusion is the best it can be and therefore don't be afraid to communicate your findings to others.

While it isn't a skill that I find as necessary as the other three, being objective is something to keep in mind. Be open to new ideas as they may be better than yours.