Thinking Critically teaches the fundamental thinking, reasoning, reading, and writing abilities that students need for academic success. The text begins with basic skills related to personal experience and then carefully progresses to the more sophisticated reasoning skills required for abstract, academic contexts. Designed to introduce students to the cognitive process, while teaching them to develop their higher order thinking and language abilities, Thinking Critically remains a proven, classroom-tested vehicle for helping them succeed. Highlights of this seventh edition include: - New! Every aspect of the text has been revisited and rethought to bring critical thinking to bear on recent world events, including November 11 and related terrorist activities - New! Readings and activities explore the meaning of patriotism and how journalists balance national security concerns with reporting on breaking events - New! Streamlined Chapter 6 on language - New! Enhanced exploration of how critical thinking can improve one's personal relationships - New! Companion web site - New! Expanded treatment of arguments and fallacies, with more examples.