Final answer:
Someone who reflects on their own thinking processes demonstrates metacognitive thinking. This involves higher-order skills such as self-awareness and critical reflection, which are important for rational and abstract thought.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual who demonstrates metacognitive thinking is someone who reflects on their own thinking processes. Metacognitive thinking involves higher-order thinking skills such as self-awareness, self-interrogation, and critical reflection. It is a process where individuals think about their own thinking, challenge their preconceptions, and actively engage in planning, monitoring, and evaluating their understanding and performance.
Someone with a high IQ or who is highly creative might also possess metacognitive abilities, but these traits alone are not indicators of metacognition. Similarly, excelling in memorization is associated with cognition rather than metacognition. Practicing metacognitive strategies improves one's ability to think abstractly and rationally, key components of philosophical thought and overcoming cognitive biases.
Good study habits and giving oneself the time to think critically are conducive to fostering metacognition. Critical reflection reduces the chances of rushing to conclusions and enables one to consider a broader range of solutions, an approach also integral to enhancing creativity. Therefore, metacognition, critical reflection, and creativity are all interrelated components of higher-level cognitive processes.