PHIL 347 Week 1 Journal Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking

After reviewing various viewpoints on critical thinking from the discussion, I gained a deeper understanding of what this term truly entails. Although critical thinking can have multiple interpretations depending on one’s perspective, I personally view it as a cognitive process that involves thinking beyond conventional boundaries and evaluating a situation from a range of perspectives, both small and large. Additionally, critical thinking encompasses the capacity to grasp complex situations, interpret surroundings, and comprehend emotional nuances to respond appropriately. By cultivating critical thinking skills, we can enhance our personal growth and adapt to a dynamic and constantly evolving environment. It is worth noting that critical thinking is a unique intellectual ability that can only be honed through firsthand observations and experiences.

PHIL 347 Week 1 Journal Critical Thinking

Heart of the Matter

The authors highlight the disparities in the ways that individuals in our society think and act in their daily lives. To gain a comprehensive understanding of critical thinking, it is essential to grasp its foundational aspects. As per Facione and Gittens’ book, Chapters 12, 13, and 14 are deemed the “heart of the matter” because they shed light on why humans cannot reach a logical and reasonable consensus despite their best efforts. Chapter 12 illustrates how effective analogies and pattern recognition strategies influence our mindset, shape our standards, and stimulate our imagination with minimal information. Chapter 13 demonstrates how to acknowledge and address our prejudices and preconceptions, while Chapter 14 elucidates how to use hypotheses and evidence to fully comprehend scientific thinking. Inference and explanation are two key concepts that these chapters emphasize, according to the authors. In simpler terms, inference involves employing logical reasoning to arrive at a conclusion.Phil347 Week 1 Journal Critical Thinking.

PHIL 347 Week 1 Journal Critical Thinking

Challenges and Insights

Inference and explanation are two crucial processes in critical thinking as they aid in comprehending and clarifying specific thoughts or situations. The authors stress the importance of these processes because critical thinking necessitates making a decision and providing justification for the reasoning behind it.
During this session, I encountered my greatest challenge in balancing school, work, and family obligations. I am concerned about overworking myself and the potential impact it could have on my physical health. Although I am not an avid reader, I recognize that nursing involves extensive reading and writing papers. Therefore, I must persevere and learn to enjoy reading.
The concepts covered in Chapters 1, 2, and 3 are immensely valuable in navigating my everyday struggles. As I have matured through life experiences and intellectual growth, I have been able to think critically and logically to overcome challenges and accomplish my goals.Phil347 Week 1 Journal Critical Thinking.

Reference:

Facione, P. A., & Gittens, C. A. (2016). Think critically (3rd ed.). Boston: Pearson.