Critical Thinking is Necessary

In this era of modern life, information is moving very fast. News from around the world can be obtained by utilizing technology. There are many positive things that we can get through information technology, even though there are many negative impacts. News that is not necessarily true or even hoaxes can be obtained easily through social media or the internet. If we are not careful in sorting out, we might believe the hoax. Well, the effect can be even greater. For example, news about natural disasters, crime, an economic weakness that is neatly packaged can affect readers. The effect can cause anxiety, fear, hatred, or disputes. In order not to immediately believe in the news that is not yet clear, we need to think critically.

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Why is critical thinking necessary? According to R.H Ennis (Zaleha Ishab Hassoubah, 2004) Critical thinking is a reasoned and reflective method of thinking by emphasizing decision making relating to what must be done and what must be trusted. A person who thinks critically will carry out a series of analyzes before acting or believing something. Critical thinking is not an easy job and involves complex things such as emotional state, personality, and culture.
Someone who tends to think critically will carry out several stages of thinking such as seeking clarity of information, looking for logical reasons, using trusted sources, seeing the overall condition, looking for explanations and taking action after the evidence is fulfilled. Critical thinking invites someone to analyze deeply before believing in a thing and taking action. Through critical thinking, a person will be careful and minimize the negative effects that may arise from actions taken. Therefore, critical thinking is very necessary today.
Practicing critical thinking can be applied to students early on. Learning models used can be chosen that are appropriate to develop students' critical thinking skills. An example is Problem Based Learning (PBL) which invites students to solve problems given by the teacher. In this problem-solving process, the critical thinking process can be developed.
Critical thinking can affect a person's success. Through critical thinking, one will be careful in making decisions and actions. Will not immediately believe the news that is received and wise in making decisions. Therefore, critical thinking needs to be developed in learning and important for modern life today.

Reference

Zaleha Izhab Hassoubah (2004) Developing Creative& Critical Thinking Skills. Bandung : Yayasan Nuansa Cendekia.