The Ever-Growing Importance of Critical Thinking

Abstract. New realities demand new abilities. We have to deal with the impact Artificial Intelligence is having on our perception of reality in the field of Education, KEYWORDS: Artificial Intelligence. Education. Critical Thinking. Reality Check. Scientific Method.

In an age where Artificial Intelligence (AI) permeates our daily lives, the skill of Critical Thinking has become increasingly vital—not only in academic and scientific domains but across all facets of society. The rapid evolution of technology allows individuals to access an overwhelming influx of information and opinions, often blending truth with falsehood. This environment necessitates a heightened ability to discern credible information from misinformation.

Scientific advancements are pushing the boundaries of our understanding, compelling us to reevaluate established beliefs. Socrates' assertion that "the more we know, the more we realize how much we do not know" resonates strongly today. From fundamental concepts like gravity to complex theories in quantum mechanics, our grasp of reality is continuously challenged. Many prevalent theories remain unproven or disproven, yet they persist due to familiarity or a lack of alternative explanations.

In this context, the ability to critically assess information becomes paramount. Kritikos, derived from Greek, signifies "the ability to judge or discern." This etymology underlines the essence of critical thinking—making sense of the information we encounter and determining its validity.

Critical Thinking is not merely an academic exercise; it is a mindset essential for navigating contemporary challenges. It forms a core component of the Scientific Method, which involves:

1. Observation: Identifying phenomena that require explanation.
2. Hypothesis Formation: Proposing potential explanations.
3. Testing: Conducting experiments to validate or refute hypotheses.
4. Conclusion: Accepting or rejecting hypotheses based on consistent results.

While this structured approach may seem formal for everyday situations, it provides a framework for honing critical thinking skills necessary for discerning useful knowledge.

On a personal level, becoming a "critical thinker" involves cultivating insightful and sophisticated thought processes. As John Chaffee notes in The Thinker’s Way, critical thinkers develop well-founded beliefs that guide their decisions across various life domains.

To effectively evaluate arguments and discern reality, consider these strategies:

1. Evaluate Sources: Assess the credibility and reliability of information sources.
2. Recognize Biases: Be aware of personal biases that may color judgment.
3. Seek Diverse Perspectives: Engage with multiple viewpoints to counteract narrow thinking.
4. Challenge Assumptions: Question established beliefs and hidden agendas.
5. Support Claims with Evidence: Ground conclusions in well-reasoned arguments and factual evidence.

The rise of AI has underscored the necessity for enhanced critical thinking skills. As AI technologies evolve, they present opportunities and challenges that require human oversight. Professionals with strong critical thinking abilities can leverage AI effectively while ensuring its outputs are accurate and ethical.

For instance, as highlighted by experts, AI cannot replace human judgment; it requires human insight to contextualize data-driven recommendations and navigate complex ethical dilemmas. In sectors like public procurement, while AI can identify patterns and risks, critical thinking is essential for evaluating these findings within broader contexts.

As we navigate an increasingly complex world shaped by AI, critical thinking skills are imperative. These skills empower individuals to sift through vast amounts of information, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to discussions around technology and society.

In summary, fostering a culture of critical thinking not only enhances individual capabilities but also strengthens collective understanding in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly. Investing time in developing these skills will ensure adaptability and success in both professional and personal arenas as we embrace the future shaped by AI.

FALLACIES?

As a last note, some pitfalls to reasoning can hinder our understanding of reality. These are called FALLACIES and can be identified because they lack evidence to support their claims.?

A fallacy is a deceptive argument that tries to persuade us to accept the claim that is being advanced, but reasons in support of the claim are irrelevant or inappropriate. https://minnstate.pressbooks.pub/ctar2/chapter/375/?

There are many types of fallacies, but some of the most recurrent are:?

1. Fallacy of Composition. Assuming something true for part of the whole is also true for the whole.?
2. Correlation vs Causation. If because event A precedes event B, A is the cause of?
3. Hasty Generalizations. These are conclusions made without sufficient evidence, biased conclusions, or without relevant facts.?
4. Either / Or. When the argument is reduced to only two alternatives or choices.?
5. Appeal to Popular Opinion. One of the hardest to avoid.?
6. Creating a “Straw Man.” Creating the illusion of different opinions vii.?
7. Slippery Slope. Leads one from seemingly unimportant and true first premises to calamitous and exaggerated consequences in the conclusion.?
8. False appeal to Authority.?

Being aware of fallacious reasoning or fallacious persuasion will help us identify deception in other people’s argumentation.

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/logic_in_argumentative_writing/fallacies.html#:~:text=Fallacies%20are%20common%20errors%20in,evidence%20that%20supports%20their%20claim.?

” I only know that I know nothing.”- Socrates- Greek Philosopher *Strong’s Dictionary? ?