Critical thinking is an approach to understanding the world that recognises the importance of questioning and rigorously examining assumptions and beliefs. It allows for the ability to form logical judgments based on analysis, evidence and observation, rather than merely relying on intuition, emotions and personal opinions. Critical thinking is more than the simple application of facts and the acquisition and regurgitation of knowledge; it requires the development of the skills that enable a practitioner to apply wisdom and judgement in a wide variety of contexts and with complex topics.

See also: mutual learning, general semantics, gregory bateson, systems thinking, double bind