Final answer:
Critical thinking requires recognizing personal biases, adopting epistemic humility, and using thorough analysis to evaluate information. It involves questioning underlying assumptions and managing emotions through reflection and considering alternative perspectives.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to lecture, to see past your identities requires critical thinking, which involves two senses: a deep understanding of one's own life experiences and how they shape perceptions, and the knowledge of epistemic humility. Critical thinking is the process used to reflect upon and analyze one's own beliefs and assumptions, often colored by personal experiences, in a manner that is conscientious and reflective.
To develop critical thinking skills, one must first recognize personal biases and limitations in knowledge, a concept known as epistemic humility. This involves acknowledging that our knowledge is conditioned by social and biological processes and is not infallible. Furthermore, critical thinkers employ methods like SIFT (Stop, Investigate the source, Find better coverage, and Trace claims to original context) to evaluate information and sources critically, especially when conducting internet research. Adopting such a stance leads to more accurate thinking and better decision-making.
Embracing critical thinking also means questioning deeply-held beliefs, even when this is uncomfortable or disturbing. It is essential to manage emotions using metacognition, reflecting on their sources, and considering alternative perspectives. In philosophy, recognizing the limitations of sense perception, questioning underlying assumptions, and being open to new evidence are keys to expanding understanding and enhancing critical thinking abilities.