Critical Thinking and Epistemic Injustice: An Essay in Epistemology of Education

This book challenges the mainstream view of critical thinking in education and advocates for an alternative view that emphasizes the normative nature of critical thinking as a competence. It draws from a conception of human reasoning and rationality and emphasizes the importance of knowledge and experience in making inferences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Critical thinking in education is often viewed and practiced in a reductive and reified manner, leading to forms of epistemic injustice in assessment. This book challenges that mainstream perspective and advocates for an alternative view of critical thinking as a normative competence rather than a reified and narrow skill. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking as a fundamental component of learning how to learn. However, the success of incorporating critical thinking into education depends on our understanding of what it truly entails.

The book draws from a conception of human reasoning and rationality that centers on belief revision. It integrates this perspective with a Bildung approach to teaching and learning, highlighting the significance of knowledge and experience in making inferences. The book argues that a reductive view of critical thinking limits the ability of students to engage with complex problems, think critically, and develop a deeper understanding of the world. It advocates for a more holistic and expansive approach to critical thinking that encompasses multiple perspectives, encourages dialogue, and promotes the development of critical thinking skills across different subject areas.

Furthermore, the book explores the relationship between critical thinking and epistemic injustice. It argues that a reductive view of critical thinking can perpetuate biases and inequalities in assessment, as it may overlook the unique perspectives and experiences of certain students. By promoting a normative view of critical thinking, educators can work towards creating more equitable and inclusive learning environments where all students have the opportunity to thrive.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the field of education by challenging the mainstream view of critical thinking and advocating for an alternative perspective that is normative, expansive, and inclusive. It provides educators with insights and strategies to integrate critical thinking into their teaching practices, promoting the development of critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the world.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030957162
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022