Philosophy as Methodology of Critical Thinking

Prof. Vihren Bouzov, DSc
St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Philosophy as Methodology of Critical Thinking

 Abstract. Philosophy has been a foundation of the liberal arts tradition since the beginning of university education in the Middle Ages. Through the methods of doubt and rational discussion, it becomes an universal tool of critical thinking. Socrates’ feat of self-sacrifice for truth is an important part of the preparation of self-thinking, free citizens. The article traces the importance of the dialectic of Marxism and of Popper’s critical method for the affirmation of different variants of critical thinking. We can refer to them also the practical logic of rational discussion. Today, those who want to limit democracy and freedom are at war with philosophy.