How does the Operations Process in FM 5–0 define critical thinking?
Critical thinking is “a deliberate process of thought whose purpose is to discern truth in situations where direct observation is insufficient, impossible, or impractical.”
What is the reference used for Critical and Creative thinking?
FM 5-0
APD 5-0
TC 2-33.4
What is the purpose of critical thinking?
The purpose of critical thinking is to get you to visualize a problem, it’s solutions, and the ramifications of those solutions.
Critical thinking is a…?
… vital tool in filling the information gaps to help make the best decisions possible.
Methods of creative thinking.
Simple evolution Synthesis Revolution Reapplication Changing direction
Simple Evolution
This is a method that uses small steps or ideas and other ideas come from that idea.
One example of this is the evolution of military weapons.
Synthesis
Combining current ideas into a new idea. One example of this is Combined Arms cells. Combining many Operations Staffs into the TOC forms a Combined Arms Cell.
Revolution
Forming an idea that is completely different from previous ideas. The example includes how to decrease the amount of lawn in yard… Xeriscaping the yard versus mowing the yard.
Reapplication
Using an old idea in a new way. An example would be using a pencil as a weapon.
Changing Direction
This method is used by considering a different angle to a problem. Typically achieved by trial and error. If you try one solution to a problem and it doesn’t work, you continue until you find something that does.
A creative thinking leaders question?
“Why don’t we try something this way?”
Elements of Thought /
Essential Intellectual Standards
- Clarity
- Accuracy
- Precision
- Relevance
- Depth
- Breadth
- Logic
- Significance
- Fairness
Reasoning Checklist
- All reasoning has a PURPOSE.
- All reasoning is an attempt to resolve a QUESTION.
- All reasoning is based upon facts and ASSUMPTIONS.
- All reasoning is done from some Point Of View.
- All reasoning is based upon raw data and INFORMATION.
- All reasoning is formed by CONCEPTS and ideas.
- All reasoning contains INFERENCE or interpretations by which we draw conclusions and give meaning to data.
- All reasoning leads somewhere or has IMPLICATIONS and consequences.
When critical thinkers take apart their thinking and examine its parts…
… they use standards of quality we refer to as the elements of thought as the intellectual standards, or standards for thought.
Essential Intellectual Traits
- Fair-Mindedness
- Intellectual Humility
- Intellectual Courage
- Intellectual Empathy
- Intellectual Integrity
- Intellectual Perseverance
- Confidence in Reason
- Intellectual Autonomy
What are the two types of logical reasoning?
Deductive reasoning
Inductive reasoning
Deductive reasoning
Reasoning where a conclusion is a logical consequence of the premise.
Inductive reasoning
A process of reasoning in which a number of specific established facts are used to draw a general conclusion.
Traits exhibited by habitual critical and creative thinkers
- Curiosity
- A motivation for answers
- Defining of the problem
- Evaluation of the evidence
- Logical reasoning
- Examination of different points of view
Tools to enhance critical and creative thinking
- List making
2. Brainstorming
Pitfalls in Thinking
Internal biases
- Confirmation bias
- Stereotyping
- Investment bias
External biases
- Cultural deformation bias
- Presentation bias
- Tunnel vision
- Overthinking
- Wishful thinking bias
Tools to avoid pitfalls in thinking
- Diagnostic technique
2. Contrarian technique
