"ACTION IS THE DAUGHTER OF THOUGHT": THE RELEVANCE OF CRITICAL THINKING IN FACE OF DAILY CHALLENGES FOR THE PROMOTION OF PERSONAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

Critical thinking has an eminently applied nature: one thinks to attain a goal, whether it is to find an explanation, to make a decision or to solve a problem. This reveals its relevance in face of daily challenges, a topic that has not yet been properly explored. In the present paper, we examine the most fundamental critical thinking skills for individuals' daily functioning for them to achieve the best personal and social well-being possible. Then, our analysis will focus on the intervention that must be performed to develop such skills. This analysis of the promotion of critical thinking will be done in the specific context of Higher Education, both with students and professors, also presenting recommendations on possible practices. If "action is the daughter of thought", it is of paramount importance that each person develops their critical thinking competencies, as an individual and as a member of a community, particularly in the pandemic scenario that we all are living.