I believe it is important to think. The ability to process life experience and glean knowledge and wisdom is essential. These kind of processing skills have been drilled into me for years. Every educational opportunity I have had has communicated the necessity of critical thinking. That said, I am discovering there is a vast difference between critical thinking and a critical attitude.
I have seen many instances in my life where my critical thinking crosses over into having a critical attitude. I love the gift of critical thought that makes us better. I despise the critical attitude that tears down whatever it is turned on. It is important that we recognize the difference between the two.
The critical attitude only sees the problems; critical thinking seeks solutions.
Anyone can identify the problem. Critical attitudes delight in identifying what is wrong. Critical thinking finds joy in discovering creative solutions.
The critical attitude vents frustration; critical thinking extends encouragement.
The critical attitude is focused on expressing frustration with the thing or person it is focused on. Critical thinking, while not dispassionate, is focused on bettering a thing or person and encouraging forward movement.
The critical attitude is rooted in self; critical thinking is rooted in others.
The critical attitude is self-seeking. It is focused on the affect a person or thing has on the individual. The critical thinking person considers him/herself as a part of the whole and focuses on what is best for the group.
When it is all said and done, for me the biggest difference between the two is motive. If I am motivated by a need to be proved right, I am operating with a critical attitude. If I am motivated by a heart to make something right, perhaps I am starting to think critically.
There is obviously so much more that could be said here. I look forward to hearing from you on it.
Great Post...Something I really needed to read...
ReplyDeletePastor.... I do agree with all you stated above... however you are only looking at the negative aspect of Critical attitude and the positive side of Critical thinking. Critical attitude at times could involve skillful judgment as to truth and merit.... not just an attitude to finding fault... agreed???? Critical attitude can also be strategic, not only pressing, weighty and finicky......... Am I wrong?
ReplyDeleteI hear what you are saying. Perhaps I should more carefully define my terms. The skillful judgment and strategy you are referring to I would see as elements of critical thinking. They are precisely the kinds of things I have in mind when I use the term critical thinking.
ReplyDeleteA critical attitude, for me, is built around negativity and general cantankerous disagreeability. It is criticism for the sake of being right or proving another wrong.
I also think it is important to note that an individual with a critical attitude and one who is simply thinking critically can say the same thing. The difference between the two is often found in the motive and manner criticism is articulated.
Thanks for you thoughts!
Yes..... well written..... I concur! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThe Bible states as you know, "Iron sharpens iron" . It's nice to see you sharpen us by what you write and then each other is sharpened by what we read and think and share. Keep sharing Bryan. Your comments are always interesting and enlightening.
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