NCJ Number
219542
Journal
Homeland Defense Journal Volume: 5 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2007 Pages: 50,52,54
Date Published
June 2007
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the importance of critical thinking and effective problem solving in a post-September 11th world.
Abstract
The main argument is that following the terrorist attacks in 2001, it has become apparent that those engaged in homeland security efforts need to be critical thinkers and effective problem-solvers due to the unexpected nature of present-day terrorist attacks. Indeed, decisionmaking following the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and the USS Cole has become perplexing and overwhelming. As such, the development of critical thinking skills in homeland security risk managers has become vital. Critical thinking involves learning how to apply experienced-based, team-based, and formal problem-solving methods to situations as they arise. When applied to homeland security, critical thinking means that intelligence and law enforcement personnel should develop multiple solutions to problems by questioning and challenging their strengths and decisionmaking practices. When applied effectively, critical thinking skills help risk managers to develop reasoned judgments when variables in a situation constantly change, reduce the number and duration of meetings, and acquire techniques to speed up group decisionmaking activities. Critical thinking skills can be learned through practice and guidance in changing the actions involved in decisionmaking. Endnotes