Introduction
The value of critical thinking is a fact. Several learners undertake learning experiences that include critical thinking. This is because, in society, making the right decision is something that bothers many most of the time as it makes some people fail to decide at all for fear of making the wrong decision that will end up haunting them later in their lives. So, the decision comes out as a thoughtful process that entails a choice for acting or even thinking. From this, the issue of ethics comes in, since it is expected that every decision is taken to serve the general public good. Critical thinking also comes in handy since it aids in breaking the issue at hand into parts for better understanding. Thus, it is the role of the critical thinker to make sure that the evaluation drawn from such a breakdown is defensible (Paul and Elder, 2002).
Best practices
Competency in equal measure forms another important facet in the world of critical thinking and decision making. For instance, some of the established qualities of critical thinking involve gathering the needed relevant information for effective drawing relevant conclusions (Austin and Freely, 2009).
Own native egocentrism does not have a place in critical thinking as it may deter objectivity; which is highly desirable in the domain of critical thinking (Chickering and Gamson1987). This is why it is good for an effective critical thinker to be well aware of his or her native egocentric and sociocentric tendencies so as they do not impair objective thinking that would lead to a better decision being made.
Some critical thinkers underrate the role of effective communication as exhibited in debates. Debates help in openly finding the other side of the story (Austin and Freely, 2009). This goes to a greater extent in making one who engages in critical thinking to have an objective considered conclusion upon which a considered reasonable conclusion can be drawn. In debates, the pros and cons of a particular issue are presented.
Fairness is a crucial issue in critical thinking and decision making. For any thinking to be considered fair there is a need to ask ourselves whether all the other points of view have been considered. These also include the awareness of the other factors that might be influencing a particular decision. Also, for any thinking and decision to occur, it is important to consider all the other divergent views about the issue (Brooke, 2006). It is equally of great importance to critically assess the effects of a particular decision on the various stakeholders. In essence, fair critical thinking may be impeded due to the failure of the thinker to recognize the various fallacies that may have sneaked through the process.
Recognition of ethical issues is equally of great essence in critical thinking and decision making. Before a decision is made, one should ask themselves whether such a decision can harm somebody else. Every decision made must first of all be for the general good (Paul, 1990). For example, the use of propaganda is usually considered unethical but it ceases to be bad, for instance, when used in media adverts advocating for, say, prevention of HIV among the population, etc. Here we see propaganda being employed for the general good.
Getting the facts right and evaluating other alternative actions and means play another important role in critical thinking and ethical decision making (Jones and Brown, 1993). For this, delving into both known and unknown facts should be the first consideration. And, is only from an exhaustive collection of facts that one should be able to make a decision (Bruning, 2005). It is unethical to make a decision derived from scanty facts. Various options for acting should be incorporated. In equal measure, evaluating the various options is not enough; there is a need to try and identify other creative options. This evaluation puts one in good stead to pick the best option among many to serve the common good.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be said that critical thinking and decision making are delicate issues that need diligence in executing. It is crucial to consider that a decision should be reached only if it serves the wider good.
References
Austin, J., &Freely, David L. S. (2009). Argumentation and Debate. Boston, MA: Thomson place Press.
Brooke, S. L. (2006). Using the case method to teach online classes: Promoting Socratic dialogue and critical thinking skills. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 18(2), 142-149. Web.
Bruning, K. (2005). The role of critical thinking in the online learning environment. International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, 2 (5). Web.
Chickering, A. & Gamson, Z. (1987). Seven principles of good practice in undergraduate education. AAHE Bulletin, 39, 3-7.
Jones, S. & Brown, L. (1993). Alternative views on defining critical thinking through the nursing process.Holistic Nursing Practice, 7(3), 71-76. Web.
Paul, R. (1990). Critical thinking: What every person needs to survive in a rapidly changing world. Rohnert park, CA. Sonoma State University Press.
Paul, R. & Elder, L. (2002). Miniature guide for students on how to study and learn a discipline using critical thinking concepts and tools. Dillon Beach, CA: The Foundation for Critical Thinking.