essays based on critical thinking

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105 Critical Thinking Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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Critical thinking is a skill that is highly valued in today's society. It involves analyzing and evaluating information to form well-reasoned judgments and make informed decisions. Critical thinking essays require students to think critically and present their arguments in a logical and coherent manner.

If you are struggling to come up with a topic for your critical thinking essay, here are 105 ideas and examples to get you started:

The impact of social media on personal relationships
The effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional classroom learning
The role of technology in shaping society
The ethical implications of genetic engineering
The influence of media on body image
The pros and cons of globalization
The impact of climate change on the environment
The benefits and drawbacks of using renewable energy sources
The role of governments in addressing income inequality
The impact of artificial intelligence on the job market
The ethics of animal testing in scientific research
The influence of advertising on consumer behavior
The role of education in reducing poverty
The benefits and challenges of multiculturalism
The impact of video games on children's behavior
The morality of capital punishment
The implications of legalized marijuana
The influence of religion on politics
The consequences of plastic pollution in oceans
The role of media in shaping public opinion
The ethics of human cloning
The impact of social class on opportunities in life
The benefits and drawbacks of nuclear energy
The effects of income inequality on societal well-being
The role of censorship in the media
The implications of mass surveillance on privacy rights
The influence of gender stereotypes on career choices
The ethics of euthanasia
The impact of fast food on public health
The role of technology in reducing poverty in developing countries
The benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence in healthcare
The consequences of deforestation on biodiversity
The influence of cultural norms on individual behavior
The ethics of animal rights
The implications of overpopulation on resources
The impact of social media on political activism
The benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
The role of education in combating climate change
The effects of income inequality on social mobility
The influence of gender roles on relationships
The ethics of assisted suicide
The consequences of air pollution on public health
The role of technology in promoting equality
The benefits and challenges of space exploration
The implications of consumerism on the environment
The impact of social media on mental health
The ethics of animal captivity in zoos
The influence of cultural diversity on creativity
The consequences of water scarcity on agriculture
The role of media in promoting stereotypes
The benefits and drawbacks of online shopping
The effects of income inequality on crime rates
The influence of gender inequality on economic development
The ethics of genetic testing
The implications of nuclear weapons on global security
The impact of social media on democracy
The benefits and challenges of autonomous vehicles
The role of education in promoting tolerance and acceptance
The consequences of plastic waste on marine life
The influence of cultural appropriation on identity
The ethics of animal agriculture
The implications of deforestation on indigenous communities
The impact of social media on self-esteem
The benefits and drawbacks of online dating
The effects of income inequality on education
The influence of gender stereotypes on leadership positions
The ethics of human organ trafficking
The consequences of pollution on wildlife
The role of technology in promoting sustainable development
The benefits and challenges of renewable energy
The implications of cultural assimilation on diversity
The impact of social media on fake news
The ethics of animal experimentation in cosmetics industry
The influence of cultural relativism on human rights
The consequences of soil erosion on food security
The role of media in perpetuating stereotypes
The benefits and drawbacks of virtual reality
The effects of income inequality on healthcare access
The influence of gender inequality on domestic violence
The ethics of surrogacy
The implications of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems
The impact of social media on youth activism
The benefits and challenges of 3D printing
The role of education in promoting sustainable consumption
The consequences of industrial agriculture on biodiversity
The influence of cultural globalization on cultural heritage
The ethics of animal entertainment in circuses
The implications of cultural imperialism on local traditions
The impact of social media on political polarization
The benefits and drawbacks of autonomous drones
The effects of income inequality on mental health
The influence of gender stereotypes on STEM fields
The ethics of human trafficking
The consequences of noise pollution on human health
The role of technology in promoting social justice
The benefits and challenges of biofuels
The implications of cultural appropriation on indigenous cultures
The impact of social media on cyberbullying
The ethics of animal extinction caused by human activities
The influence of cultural stereotypes on interracial relationships
The consequences of plastic packaging on waste management
The role of media in promoting consumerism
The benefits and drawbacks of cryptocurrency
The effects of income inequality on political participation
The influence of gender inequality on human development

These essay topics cover a wide range of critical thinking subjects, allowing you to choose the one that interests you the most or aligns with your academic goals. Remember to research your chosen topic thoroughly and present a well-supported argument in your essay. Critical thinking is all about analyzing information and forming an evidence-based opinion, so make sure to approach your essay with a critical mindset.

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Critical Thinking Essay: A Complete Student Guide

Icon Calendar 6 November 2024
Icon Page 4103 words
Icon Clock 19 min read

Essay writing is an integral academic exercise for students in higher educational institutions. As an example of different paper types, a critical thinking essay requires people to employ analytical and reflective writing skills. In essence, these skills underscore essential features of such an essay: analysis of information, reflection on key findings, a review of information’s relevance, and an identification of any conclusions made by an author(s) or other scholars. Hence, a critical thinking paper is a specific type of writing that requires learners to read documents and make interpretations from their points of view. In turn, people need to learn how to write these essays to master their analytical, creative, and reflective skills.

General Guidelines

Critical thinking is an essential skill, particularly for students who need to analyze and interpret data. In turn, a real essence of such a skill is that learners confront issues every day that require them to make prompt decisions. Moreover, it is a unique mechanism by which individuals arrive at these decisions. Therefore, a critical thinking essay is a document that allows students to address an issue holistically. Then, it means addressing issues in an essay format by using critical thinking skills from different perspectives, highlighting possible alternatives, and making well-thought-out decisions. To a target audience, such a text makes it easy to understand a writer’s message and either agree or disagree with it. Besides, a particular decision to agree or disagree is based on a writer’s information regarding an issue in question. Hence, this is why authors of such essays need to provide details that make their arguments stronger and more palatable to an intended audience.

What Is a Critical Thinking Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a critical thinking essay is an academic writing form that challenges students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information to form a reasoned argument or perspective. The main purpose of writing a critical thinking essay is to encourage a deeper understanding and engagement with a topic at hand and allow students to question assumptions, recognize different viewpoints, and articulate their own reasoned conclusions (Atkins & Carver, 2022). Further on, learners enhance their ability to think logically and argue persuasively, skills that are valuable not only in academic contexts but also in everyday decision-making and problem-solving. Moreover, common elements of critical thinking include analysis, evaluation, explanation, and logical conclusion (Thurman & Gary, 2020). As a result, such a composition shapes a reflective and analytical mindset, preparing people for complex real-world and problem-solving situations. In terms of pages and words, a typical length of writing a critical thinking essay depends on an academic level, course, professor, and specific assignment criteria, while general guidelines are:

High School:

Length: 2-4 pages
Word Count: 500-1,000 words
Length: 3-5 pages
Word Count: 750-1,250 words

University (Undergraduate):

Length: 5-8 pages
Word Count: 1,250-2,000 words

Master’s:

Length: 8-12 pages
Word Count: 2,000-3,000 words
Length: 15-20 pages
Word Count: 3,750-5,000 words

How to write a critical thinking essay with examples

Writing Format

Note: Some sections in a critical thinking essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other. In turn, its typical structure in writing includes an introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs with evidence, explanation, and analysis, counterarguments with refutations, and a conclusion that summarizes key points and restates a thesis.

Characteristics

When writing a critical thinking essay, people should address several essential features. Firstly, authors need to reflect on what they have read, meaning taking time to consider specific information’s relevance (Larsson, 2019). In essence, such an attitude helps them to make strong arguments in defense of their points of view. Secondly, learners need to analyze how this information is presented and state whether it is sufficient or needs improvement. Thirdly, they need to review observed information based on previous knowledge (Southworth, 2022). Here, they should say whether this information advances a concept or theory or contradicts existing knowledge. Finally, scholars need to identify a final conclusion reached by an author(s) of reviewed information and support or challenge it. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a critical thinking essay are:

In recent discussions about [topic/theme], a current controversial issue involves whether [specific aspect], with various scholars arguing both for and against this perspective based on differing evidence and interpretations.
The phenomenon of [topic] raises important questions about [related issue], prompting a need to critically examine the underlying causes and broader implications for [field or society].
As [author/expert] argues in [source’s title], the implications of [topic] require a deeper analysis of possible factors that contribute to an ongoing debate on [related aspect].
A primary purpose of this essay is to examine the impact of [topic] on [specific group or field] and explore how different viewpoints and evidence shape a current understanding of [issue].
In addressing the complexities of [topic], it is essential to consider a historical context, key arguments, and counterarguments to fully appreciate that [theme] is a solution to a current discourse.
Understanding [topic] requires more analysis of underlying factors, such as [factor 1], [factor 2], and [factor 3], each of which plays a crucial role in shaping a current discussion.
A particular debate surrounding [topic] often centers on an issue of [specific aspect], with proponents and opponents offering contrasting perspectives that cannot be used as a single solution.
A critical response to [topic] that warrants further analysis is [specific aspect], as it reveals significant implications for [related issue].
To fully grasp an actual significance of [topic], one must first explore historical developments and key arguments that have shaped a current understanding and ongoing debates on [issue].
In light of recent developments in [field], a hot discussion of [topic] has become increasingly relevant because it highlights a current importance of an issue and a need for a critical examination of its broader impact on [aspect].

How to Identify

Based on essential features described above, students can tell whether an essay they are writing is a critical thinking paper. Ideally, learners can know their papers are critical thinking essays if prompt requirements require them to read and analyze a text. Basically, an analysis process includes reflecting on an assigned text, commenting on how information is presented and its relation to previous knowledge, and supporting or challenging a final conclusion made (Butler, 2024). In principle, these requirements reflect defining features of such essays. A a result, to think critically, people systematically question assumptions, evaluate evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and reason logically to formulate well-supported conclusions.

A critical thinking paper differs fundamentally from other types of essays because it requires a student to read a text, such as a book or a poem, and analyze it using a writer’s perspective. Moreover, some instructions need people to analyze a film. In other words, writing a critical thinking essay emphasizes a learner’s understanding of information with a specific meaning of what a person has read, watched, or heard (Nosich, 2022). Indeed, it is a central point of difference from other types of papers that require people to refrain from personal viewpoints. Then, this feature means instructors grade such papers based on a writer’s ability to develop a coherent argument and use essential writing skills. As such, one can argue a critical thinking essay is a form of an argumentative essay.

Prompt Examples for Critical Thinking

Identify Communication Differences Between Men and Women

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read texts that talk about how men and women communicate and identify the differences. Hence, writers should analyze what they have read and summarize it via concise statements or arguments.

Discuss Drug Use in Sports

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to research texts, such as research journal articles and government reports, that address a particular problem of drug use in sports and summarize their findings.

Explore an Anti-Meth Campaign

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read widely about anti-meth campaigns and provide an in-depth analysis of their impacts. By reading an essay, a target audience should understand whether specific campaigns have been effective or ineffective.

Describe Homelessness and Its Social Impacts

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read texts about homelessness, such as journal articles and reports by governments and other humanitarian organizations, and explain root causes and social implications of homelessness.

Analyze a History of College Football in the United States

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read documents, such as books and media articles, narrating college football history in the United States. After writing a whole essay, a target audience should identify specific challenges that college football has faced in its development in a country.

Define Health Effects of Obesity

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read research studies and medical reports discussing obesity. In turn, an essay should explain specific causes of obesity and corresponding risks that obese individuals face.

Review a Significance of Street Art and Graffiti

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read texts discussing an entire evolution of street art and graffiti and make compelling arguments as to why they are essential features of modern art.

Sports on Television: Is It Necessary?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to explain why television has become an essential platform for sports and how it undermines or helps advance its social and cultural significance.

What Is an Essence of Multicultural Identity?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to explore a phenomenon of multiculturalism that has become notable and acceptable in modern society and explain its significance.

Examine a Relevance of Body Size in Modeling

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to explore a modeling profession and explain why body size matters. In other words, a complete essay should make a case as to why a model should have a particular body size.

Write About Understanding Multicultural Families

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to explore multicultural families by reading texts that address a unique issue from a research or commentary perspective and summarize its leading arguments.

Changing Gender Roles: What It Means for Traditionalists?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to explore gender roles from a historical and present perspective and discuss how they threaten or cement traditional views about common roles of men and women.

What Is Ethnic Music, and Does It Matter in a Multicultural Society?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to study multiculturalism and identify how ethnic music is a significant characteristic.

Explain American Society and Latino’s Influence

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to study contemporary American society’s characteristics and indicate a specific extent to which Latinos and their culture (Latin American) have become a significant part of an American identity.

Discuss Challenges of Single-Parent Households

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to read research studies on single parenthood and identify its challenges.

What Are Unique Features of a Good Movie?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to watch movies they consider “good” and provide an analysis of what makes them so.

Interpret a Poem With a First-Person Point of View

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to select a poem, examine it, and describe its outstanding features, such as literary devices.

Illustrate a Dynamics of Adoption in a Multicultural Society

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to examine a particular aspect of adoption within a specific context of a multicultural society.

What Store Strategies Influence Consumers?

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to study a phenomenon of retail stores and give an analysis of specific factors that lead to their growth or shutdown.

Euthanasia: Questions of Ethics, Morals, and Legality

Under this prompt example, a student’s task is to examine a controversial aspect of euthanasia (mercy or assisted killing) and give an opinion on whether society should address it from some perspectives of ethics, morals, or law.

Need to Think Critically by Looking at a Topic

When it comes to essay writing, educational department’s requirements provide direction about a debatable topic. By reading such a topic, people get an idea of what kind of paper they are supposed to write. Regarding such a document, a topic should require them to research a specific theme, reflect on what they have read, and comment on a way how an author has presented information, its relevance to existing knowledge, and its actual significance for a person’s conclusion (Nosich, 2022). In turn, these five tasks underscore essential features of such a composition. As a result, to start a critical thinking essay, writers begin with an engaging introduction that provides context, introduces the topic, and clearly states their thesis statements.

When it comes to an essay structure, a critical thinking paper comprises three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. When writing each of these sections, students should capture essential features. Firstly, an introduction should provide a hook to capture a reader’s attention and formulate a thesis statement to guide paper’s main arguments and ideas (Atkins & Carver, 2022). In a body section, writers should use topic sentences to introduce paragraphs. Besides, learners should follow a sandwich rule, where they make a claim, provide supporting facts, and explain a significance of cited evidence to a paper’s thesis (Thurman & Gary, 2020). In a conclusion part, authors should restate a thesis statement, summarize main body points, and make a concluding remark. Finally, other essential features that people should use in their text’s paragraphs are transitions to give an entire paper a natural and logical flow of ideas and arguments.

Steps on How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay

To write a critical thinking essay, people usually start by clearly defining their topics and thesis statements, gathering and analyzing credible evidence, considering multiple perspectives, including counterarguments, and presenting a reasoned and coherent argument supported by thorough analysis and logical reasoning. In turn, some steps for writing a good critical thinking essay include:

Understand an Assignment: Carefully read and comprehend an essay prompt or question to know exactly what is required.
Choose a Topic: Select a relevant and engaging topic that allows for deep analysis and corresponding thinking.
Conduct Research: Gather reliable and relevant sources to provide evidence and support for key arguments.
Develop a Thesis Statement: Formulate a clear thesis statement that presents a main argument, claim, or perspective.
Create an Outline: Organize central ideas and structure an essay by creating an outline with main points and subpoints.
Write an Introduction: Develop an engaging introduction that provides context and states a central thesis.
Develop Body Paragraphs: Write detailed body paragraphs, each focusing on a single point, connecting to a thesis, and using evidence, explanation, and analysis.
Address Counterarguments: Identify and refute potential opposing views to strengthen a main argument.
Write a Conclusion: Summarize central points, restate a thesis in light of the evidence, and end with a strong concluding thought.
Revise and Edit: Review a critical thinking essay for clarity, coherence, and logical flow, and correct any grammatical or typographical errors.

Sample Outline Template

I. Introduction

A. Start with a hook sentence that makes an essay interesting. B. Cover brief information about a theme discussed in body paragraphs. C. End with a thesis statement.

A. Background Information:

introduce an issue for readers;
provide examples that support this issue;
explain how examples correlate with a theme;
finish with defining an issue for readers.

B. Argument on an Issue

begin with an argument on an issue;
covers examples to support this argument;
explain how examples and argument are related;
conclude how an argument on this theme is relevant.

C. Importance of an Issue

state why this issue is important;
support this statement with examples from credible sources;
explain how these examples underline the importance of an issue;
end with a concluding sentence that supports this importance.

III. Conclusion

A. Restate a thesis claim. B. Cover the key points discussed in body paragraphs. C. Provide a final thought on an issue.

Example of a Critical Thinking Essay

Topic: Roles of Critical Thinking Skills

Introduction Sample

Critical thinking is a requirement in higher education because it reflects the level of mental preparedness of students intending to join the labor industry. In this case, essay writing is one of the strategies that higher education institutions use to develop these critical thinking skills in students. Writing argumentative essays has profoundly shaped my critical thinking skills and made me more reflective and analytical in my texts.

Examples of Body Paragraphs

Background Information of an Issue

The advent of the Internet opened a new world of research as scholars found a platform to publish research findings. Besides scholars, public and private entities have turned to online platforms to spread information they perceive as critical and needful. Over time, I have come to see the Internet as a crucial reservoir of knowledge, and I always turn to it for personal enrichment. Moreover, Gilster (1997) perceives critical thinking as a critical skill for individuals who use online platforms for academic purposes. In this case, the author demonstrates that, since the Internet is full of falsehoods and incomplete and obsolete information, it is critical for those who depend on this technology to employ critical thinking. Hence, such thinking helps users distinguish between essential, relevant information and what appears to be irrelevant and nonessential.

Argument on an Issue

On the issue of critical thinking, examining and analyzing content are fundamental exercises. In essence, critical thinking entails reading a text and interpreting it by using an analytical lens. For example, when students read novels, they can use their critical thinking skills to analyze the plot and characters and provide arguments that indicate an in-depth understanding of both (Gilster, 1997). In most cases, such ideas go beyond what is written in the novel to include the student’s interpretation of events. In my case, I use the Internet to find research and media articles on different topics, such as homelessness, substance abuse, crime, and police and law enforcement. Moreover, I use these articles to reflect on the dynamics that shape life in contemporary society, using my critical thinking skills to relate the past, present, and future. Therefore, I can state confidently that this habit has made me a strong debater on contemporary issues.

Importance of an Issue

By using critical thinking skills, readers make deductions, thereby showcasing their understanding levels. As the literature suggests, critical thinking serves as a basis for knowledge accumulation and advancement (Ku & Ho, 2010). In my academic journey, I have employed critical thinking to gain insight into several issues. Furthermore, one of these issues is the significance of politics to the lives of ordinary citizens. Then, many documents I have read about politics have made me conclude that politicians are selfish by default and only develop consensus when their interests are accommodated. Hence, this understanding has made me have minimal expectations from local and national political figures.

Conclusion Sample

Critical thinking is a key skill that helps individuals to analyze and reflect on information from diverse sources. Over the years, I have used critical thinking to analyze research and media articles published on online platforms and make logical deductions. Moreover, these deductions point to my ability to take information, analyze it, and interpret it. Thus, I can confidently state that my critical thinking skills have made me aware of human weaknesses and the risk of putting too much trust in people vulnerable to shortcomings.

List of References

Gilster, P. (1997). Digital literacy: The thinking and survival skills new users need to make the Internet personally and professionally meaningful . New York, NY: Wiley.

Ku, K. Y., & Ho, I. T. (2010). Metacognitive strategies that enhance critical thinking. Metacognition and Learning , 5 (3), 251-267.

What to Include

Common mistakes.

Lack of a Thesis: Failing to present a specific and arguable thesis that guides an essay.
Insufficient Evidence: Relying on writing personal opinions without providing credible and relevant sources to support arguments.
Ignoring Counterarguments: Not addressing opposing viewpoints or failing to refute them effectively.
Poor Structure: Writing an essay without a logical flow or clear organization, making it difficult for readers to follow a central argument.
Overgeneralization: Making general statements without sufficient evidence to back them up.
Questionable Analysis: Offering unclear interpretations or analysis of evidence rather than engaging in a deep and well-reasoned examination.
Repetition: Repeating same points or ideas without adding new insights or evidence.
Weak Conclusions: Ending a paper without effectively summarizing main points and restating a thesis.
Ignoring Formatting and Citation Guidelines: Failing to properly format an essay or cite sources according to a required academic style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, etc.).
Grammatical and Typographical Errors: Submitting a document with numerous grammatical mistakes and typographical errors, which can distract from its content and weaken its main argument.

A critical thinking essay is a document that reflects a student’s ability to use analytical and reflective skills in studying an issue. Although writing such a composition assumes following a basic structure of a standard essay, it has features that distinguish it from other papers. When writing this type of essay, people should master the following tips:

Read and analyze information.
Reflect on study findings.
Review an actual relevance of observed information within a context of existing knowledge.
Identify any conclusions made by authors or other scholars and their significance.

Atkins, H. S., & Carver, L. (2022). Writing is thinking: Strategies for all content areas . Rowman & Littlefield.

Butler, H. A. (2024). Predicting everyday critical thinking: A review of critical thinking assessments. Journal of Intelligence , 12 (2), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence12020016

Larsson, K. (2019). Using essay responses as a basis for teaching critical thinking – A variation theory approach. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research , 65 (1), 21–35. https://doi.org/10.1080/00313831.2019.1650824

Nosich, G. M. (2022). Critical writing: A guide to writing a paper using the concepts and processes of critical thinking . Rowman & Littlefield.

Southworth, J. (2022). Bridging critical thinking and transformative learning: The role of perspective-taking. Theory and Research in Education , 20 (1), 44–63. https://doi.org/10.1177/14778785221090853

Thurman, S. S., & Gary, W. L. (2020). Critical literacy: Integrating critical thinking, reading, and writing . Cognella Academic Publishing.

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