[MD] critical thinking

[X Acto]

Critical thinking is crucial to becoming a close reader and a substantive writer.
 
The dispositional dimension of critical thinking is characterological. 
Its focus is in learning and developing the habitual intention to be 
truth-seeking, open-minded, systematic, analytical, inquisitive, confident 
in reasoning, and prudent in making judgments. Those who are ambivalent on 
one or more of these aspects of the disposition toward critical thinking 
or who have an opposite disposition (intellectually arrogant, biased, intolerant, 
emotional, disorganized, lazy, heedless of consequences, indifferent toward new 
information, mistrustful of reasoning, or imprudent) are more likely to 
encounter problems in using their critical-thinking skills. Failure to recognize 
the importance of correct dispositions can lead to various forms of self-deception 
and closed-mindedness, both individually and collectively.[14]
 
The deliberation characteristic of strong critical thinking associates critical thinking 
with the reflective aspect of human reasoning. Those who would seek to improve our individual 
and collective capacity to engage problems using strong critical thinking skills are, therefore, 
recommending that we bring greater reflection and deliberation to decision making.
 
Critical thinking is based on self-corrective concepts and principles, not on hard and fast, 
or step-by-step, procedures.