Critical thinking is an important skill that allows us to evaluate information objectively and draw logical conclusions. There are many different frameworks for understanding and applying critical thinking, but one simple and useful model is the 3 C’s of critical thinking: Curiosity, Connections, and Cogency.
Curiosity
The first C of critical thinking is curiosity. Critical thinkers have an innate sense of curiosity and wonder about the world around them. They constantly ask questions and seek to understand why things are the way they are. Some examples of curious questioning in critical thinking include:
- Why do I believe what I believe?
- What evidence supports this claim?
- How did this situation come about?
- What are the strengths and flaws in different perspectives?
Curiosity leads critical thinkers to dig beneath the surface of issues to uncover assumptions, evaluate evidence, and consider different viewpoints. As Aristotle famously stated, “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” The curious and open-minded nature of critical thinkers allows them to entertain thoughts and ideas while suspending judgment in order to deeply understand an issue.
Connections
The second C is making connections. Critical thinkers are able to make connections between information that may not seem related on the surface. This allows them to synthesize data, ideas, and concepts to gain insight and develop creative solutions. Examples of making connections in critical thinking include:
- Connecting the dots between historical events and current situations.
- Identifying patterns in data that provide greater understanding.
- Linking concepts from different disciplines like economics, psychology, and political science.
- Relating personal experiences to theoretical frameworks.
Strong critical thinkers are able to take information and make meaningful connections to other contexts. They have a broad base of knowledge and mental flexibility that allows them to identify parallels between disparate ideas. This skill is powerful for developing new theories, solve problems, and make predictions.
Cogency
The third C is cogency, which refers to the logical strength of arguments and conclusions. Critical thinkers value cogency and are able to develop opinions and arguments in a clear, rational, and systematic manner. Aspects of cogent reasoning include:
- Providing well-reasoned chains of logic and argument.
- Supporting claims with empirical facts and credible evidence.
- Anticipating counterarguments and rebutting them effectively.
- Drawing conclusions that logically follow from the reasoning and evidence provided.
Cogency separates critical thinking from mere opinion. While anyone can hold an opinion on an issue, critical thinkers anchor their perspectives in facts, data, and rigorous logic. This allows their conclusions to withstand scrutiny and debate. A cogent argument demonstrates the logical thought process that led to a particular conclusion.
Applying the 3 C’s of Critical Thinking
Let’s explore how to apply the 3 C’s of critical thinking in an example scenario. Suppose your workplace instituted a new policy that prohibits employees from displaying personal items and photos at their desks. As a critical thinker, you would apply the 3 C’s in the following ways:
- Curiosity: Ask questions to understand the reasons for and implications of this policy. What concerns prompted this change? How will it impact morale? What are the costs and benefits?
- Connections: Think through how this policy relates to business needs, employee engagement theories, and your organization’s core values. How does it align or clash with other policies?
- Cogency: Before forming an opinion, gather objective data and facts. Research the effects of similar policies in other companies. Consider strong arguments for and against the policy change.
Approaching this situation with curiosity, connection-making, and cogency allows you to deeply understand the issue and take a thoughtful, evidence-based stance.
Developing the 3 C’s of Critical Thinking
The 3 C’s provide a roadmap to improve critical thinking, but require practice and discipline to develop. Here are some tips to enhance curiosity, connections, and cogency:
- Question assumptions. Ask “why” regularly to expose assumptions and blind spots.
- Consider alternative perspectives. Intentionally look at issues from different angles to broaden your thinking.
- Look for patterns and connections. Identify similarities between concepts and synthesize information.
- Support claims with evidence. Do research, analyze data, and reference credible sources.
- Avoid logical fallacies. Watch for faulty, weak, or irrational arguments and reasoning.
- Change your mindset. Be open to having your viewpoints challenged and evolving your thinking.
Additionally, discussing ideas with others who think differently, taking critical thinking courses, and consuming thought-provoking media can hone your skills. With ongoing refinement, the 3 C’s will become engrained mental habits.
Conclusion
The 3 C’s of critical thinking—curiosity, connections, and cogency—provide a straightforward model for approaching issues rationally and objectively. By cultivating an attitude of curiosity, making meaningful connections between concepts, and valuing logical reasoning, critical thinkers can evaluate information insightfully, have thoughtful dialogue, and make wise decisions. Practicing the 3 C’s leads to substantial personal and professional growth.