Final answer:
Critical thinking is the ability to evaluate viewpoints, facts, and behaviors objectively. It involves gathering information, analyzing evidence, and forming judgments based on logical reasoning. In social studies, critical thinking helps students analyze different perspectives and evaluate historical events and arguments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Critical thinking is the ability to evaluate viewpoints, facts, and behaviors objectively in order to assess the presentation of information and the methods of argumentation in order to establish the true worth or merit of an act or course of conduct. Critical thinking involves gathering information, analyzing evidence, and forming judgments based on logical reasoning. In the context of the question, critical thinking is an important skill in social studies as it helps students analyze different perspectives, evaluate historical events and arguments, and develop a more objective understanding of the subject matter.