Prolegomena to a Critical Thinking Therapy

Abstract

Thinking may be a universal feature of human beings but correct, strategic and directed thinking is something that eludes a large section of humanity. Yet it is this kind of directed thinking that is needed in organizations with strategic goals and objectives. It is also the same kind of thinking that is required by individuals who suffer the emotional and physical stress that arises from living in our contemporary world. Corporate organisations and individuals sometimes acknowledge the importance of correct thinking in remedying some of the ills that afflict them, yet, few actually know what it entails and how it could be applied in practical situations. This paper will explore the different ways of using Critical Thinking to change behaviours and achieve targeted outcomes in individuals and organizations. Using different scenarios and case studies, it presents knowledge as therapeutic and Critical Thinking as capable of enhancing this therapy. It will demonstrate how a Critical Thinking programme can be designed such that, through dialogues, seminars and/or workshops individuals or members of an organization can be re-oriented towards a desired objective. It will also show how a critical thinking programme can be designed to help an individual achieve certain life goals. The paper will show that Critical Thinking therapy, as an aspect of philosophical counselling, can be an alternative life-therapy for individuals and organizations.