Critical Thinking and Thinking Styles

Critical Thinking

• Definition: Self-guided, self-disciplined thinking that reasons at the highest level of quality.
• Guiding Principles: Logic and respect for truth.
• Development: A continuous process of learning.
• Principles:
  • Clarity: Expressing ideas clearly and concisely.
  • Accuracy: Backing up claims with evidence.
  • Relevance: Ensuring that supporting claims advance the argument.
  • Depth: Willingness to thoroughly examine all aspects of an issue.
  • Breadth: Openness to considering diverse perspectives.
• Logic: A connection where one point supports the text, leading to a clear and natural conclusion.

Thinking Styles

• Big Picture Thinking: Stepping back from a problem to gain a broader understanding.
  • Promotes teamwork and keeps focus on goals.
  • Encourages synthesis of learning.
• Focused Thinking: Intensely studying an issue without distraction.
  • Increases efficiency and improves brain function.
• Realistic Thinking: Assessing the world objectively and accurately.
  • Builds credibility and allows leaders to operate effectively.
• Shared Thinking: Valuing the thoughts and ideas of others.
  • Obstacle: Emotional insecurity.

Logical Fallacies

• Ad Hominem: Attacking the person making the argument instead of addressing the logic.
• Appeal to Authority: Supporting a claim by citing a respected figure without providing logical reasoning.
• Post Hoc fallacy: Assuming that because Event A happened before Event B, Event A caused Event B.
• Appeal to Tradition: Assuming older ideas are inherently better, resisting change.
• Red Herring Fallacy: Introducing irrelevant information to distract from the main issue.
• Weak Analogy: Using an analogy that isn't strong enough to support the argument.
• Straw Man Fallacy: Misrepresenting the opposing argument to make it appear weaker.
• Begging the Question: Supporting a claim by simply restating it.
• False Dilemma: Presenting only two options when there are others available.
• Slippery Slope: Assuming that one action will inevitably lead to a series of negative consequences without evidence.

Creative Thinking

• Definition: Concentration combined with imagination.
• CAP Core Value: Excellence requires creative thinking.
• Mindmapping: A brainstorming method that visually connects ideas.
• Headlines of the Future Method: Describing dreams and analyzing steps to achieve them.
• Flowcharts: Visual representations of processes.
• Multi-voting: A team decision-making method that avoids winner-loser scenarios.
• Pros and Cons: Structured approach to evaluating options using a point system.
• Gradual Voting: Enables team members to fully express their views before voting.

Leadership

• Leadership Influence: Motivating others towards a specific goal.
• Learning Objectives: Clearly defined, measurable goals for learning.
• Learning Methods:
  • Visual: Learning through visuals like videos, diagrams, and pictures.
  • Auditory: Learning best by listening.

Branding

• Definition: Associating visual, cultural, and emotional images with a product.
• Goal: Creating a memorable impression on consumers.

Creativity and Conformity

• Social Pressure: Peer pressure can influence conformity, making 'creativity" a disguise.
• Military Lifestyle: Potentially hostile to creative thinking.