INTRODUCTIONCritical thinking has been defined extensively over thousands of years, but comparing many of these definitions shows that the emphasis shifts between the characteristics deemed most important to each individual . Regardless of the definition, the same three important principles are always included: skepticism, open-mindedness, and objectivity. It is important for each individual to conclude their own definition of critical thinking in order to enable a specific authenticity that is equivalent to their academic work. This essay will show that while the true meaning of critical thinking does not change, adapting a personal definition is vital to succeeding in higher education and acquiring the skills needed for everyday life. CRITICAL THINKING There are a number of definitions that explain the term “critical thinking.” Socrates was among the first to develop critical thinking strategies. Socrates established the fact that those in "authority" cannot be relied upon to have sound knowledge and insight... He established the importance of seeking evidence, closely examining reasoning and hypotheses, analyze basic concepts, and trace the implications not only of what is said but also of what is done. (The Critical Thinking Community 2009 online)This early definition of critical thinking was crucial to the development and survival of scholars and philosophers of that era. In comparison, Paul and Elder (2002: 119-122) encourage students to develop intellectual standards that include self-evaluation and avoidance of bias while constantly questioning the importance and relevance of everything that is read, studied and listened to. Xander Hamilton-Reeves (2009 online) offers a more simplistic definition of "filtering information in ...... middle of paper ......iver, New Jersey." Paul, R. 1990, 'Critical Thinking: What Every Person Must Survive in a Rapidly Changing World', Center for Critical Thinking and Moral Criticism. Retrieved May 18, 2010, from http://outopia.org/teach/resources/CritThink1.pdfScriven, M. & Paul, R. 1987, “A Working Definition of Critical Thinking”, The Critical Thinking Community. Retrieved May 18 from http://www.criticalthinking.org/aboutCT/define_critical_thinking.cfmThe Critical Thinking Community 2009, “35 Dimensions of Critical Thinking,” The Critical Thinking Community. Retrieved May 22, 2010, from http://www.criticalthinking.org/page.cfm?PageID=466&CategoryID=63#261The Critical Thinking Community 2009, “A Brief History of the Idea of ​​Critical Thinking,” The Critical Thinking Community . Retrieved May 22, 2010 from http://www.criticalthinking.org/aboutCT/briefHistoryCT.cfm