Critical thinking
There is not standard definition of critical thinking. In general it is very similar to skepticism, but with less emphasis on pseudo-science. (Another difference is that critical thinkers usually have a philosophy background, while skeptics usually have a more scientific background. There is, not surprisingly, some overlap. Dr. Robert Todd Carroll, a professor of philosophy, teaches a course and has written a book on critical thinking, he also writes the popular Skeptic's Dictionary site and has written a book on that subject to be published in 2003.) Topics covered by critical thinking typically include evaluating arguments, identifying fallacies, evaluating evidence, preparing sound arguments and evaluating propaganda.
Books and links for critical thinking
NEW Robert Todd Carroll has posted a series of mini-lessons on critical thinking
Becoming a critical Thinker: A Guide for the New Millennium by Robert Todd Carroll, Pearson Custom Publishing, 2000
Critical Thinking: A concise Guide by Tracy Bowell and Gary Kemp, Routledge, 2002.
How to Think about Weird Things: Critical Thinking for a New Age by Theodore Schick, Jr. and Lewis Vaughn, Mayfield Publishing Company, 1995-1999.
Foundation for Critical Thinking Home Page
Critical Thinking Resources - Longview Community College
Approaches to Critical Thinking by Dr. Charles Ess - Drury College
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Written by Jim Norton
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