Critical Thinking

Some of these definitions seemed to propose the exact opposite of what occurs in hypertext writing: focusing on one main goal, and figuring out how to get there. With hypertexts, one has to continually disperse and and find new, but related, topics to discuss. I think the three best defitions are:

Critical thinking also involves evaluating the thinking process - the
reasoning that went into the conclusion we've arrived at the kinds of factors considered in making a decision.
Halpern, Diane F. Thought and Knowledge: An Introduction to Critical Thinking. 1996.

"The purpose of critical thinking is, therefore, to achieve understanding, evaluate view points,and solve problems. Since all three areas involve the asking of questions, we can say that critical thinking is the questioning or inquiry we engage in when we seek to understand, evaluate, or resolve."
Maiorana, Victor P. Critical Thinking Across the Curriculum: Building the Analytical Classroom. 1992.

"Broadly speaking, critical thinking is concerned with reason, intellectual honesty, and open-mindedness, as opposed too emotionalism, intellectual laziness, and closed-mindedness. Thus, critical thinking involves: following evidence where it leads; considering all possibilities; relying on reason rather than emotion; being precise; considering a variety of possible viewpoints and explanations; weighing the effects of motives and biases; being concerned more with finding the truth than with being right; not rejecting unpopular views out of hand; being aware of one's own prejudices and biases, and not allowing them to sway one's judgment."
Kurland, Daniel J. I Know What It Says . . . What does it Mean? 1995.

These three definitions involve evaluation and thinking, but allow for freedom and broadening of the writing.