Final answer:
The validation component of critical thinking involves reflecting on one's own beliefs and biases, using logic to assess facts and evidence, and exercising epistemic humility to acknowledge the limitations of one's knowledge.
Step-by-step explanation:
Critical thinking is an essential skill in academic disciplines requiring a deep and thoughtful analysis of information. The validation component of critical thinking involves reflective thought to correct cognitive biases. It requires a person to be skeptical of their own beliefs, intuitions, and gut reactions by engaging in an analytic approach, assessing facts, considering evidence, employing logic, and resisting hasty conclusions. This reflective process leads to more accurate thinking and decision-making. Epistemic humility is also important, acknowledging the limitations and fragile nature of human knowledge. Additionally, the SIFT method is utilized for evaluating sources, especially in internet research, which involves stopping to contemplate, investigating the source, finding better coverage, and tracing claims to original context. These practices help ensure the information is trustworthy and valid. It's also beneficial to understand that critical writing reflects critical thinking. Applying reasoning patterns effectively strengthens one's ability to support an argument and persuade readers with solid evidence.