Knowledge Doesn't Exist and Other Thoughts on Critical Thinking

Christopher P. Dwyer (Technological University of Shannon)

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Forthcoming
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English

Cambridge University Press
31 July 2025

Cognition & cognitive psychology; Educational psychology

Critical thinking (CT) is essential in education, the workplace, and everyday life, yet many struggle to understand or apply it effectively. This book breaks down the 'what, how, and when' of CT in a clear, accessible way, making it practical for readers from all walks of life. Drawing on over fifteen years of researching CT, Dwyer presents accessible evidence-based lessons and strategies for using CT in real-world situations, helping readers navigate the overwhelming flood of information we face daily. Written in an informal, engaging tone, this book makes CT approachable for anyone looking to improve their decision-making skills.

By: Christopher P. Dwyer (Technological University of Shannon)
Imprint: Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
ISBN: 9781009602723
ISBN 10: 1009602721
Pages: 200
Publication Date: 31 July 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Foreword; An introduction; 1. What exactly is critical thinking'?; 2. When and why do we think critically?; 3. Knowledge doesn't exist: the nature of certainty and problems with 'theory' and 'proof'; 4. Understanding the flaws of experience and memory; 5. Evaluating information sources and credibility; 6. Changing minds; 7. Eureka moments, problem-solving and creativity; 8. Critical thinking training; 9. Implications of social psychology on critical thinking and practical lessons learned in recent years; 10. How can we really think critically? Engaging and expressing critical thinking in our everyday lives.

Dr. Christopher Dwyer is a senior psychology researcher and lecturer at the Technological University of the Shannon, in the Department of Technology Education. He has authored over forty peer-reviewed research papers; an ongoing blog, Thoughts on Thinking; as well as this book's predecessor, Critical Thinking: Historical Perspectives and Practical Guidelines (2017).

Reviews for Knowledge Doesn't Exist and Other Thoughts on Critical Thinking

Dwyer's book covers so much necessary information in such a compact format that one ends up thinking, 'It really can't be that easy.' But it is. Dwyer goes right to the heart of the major issues involved in critical thinking, ranging into cognitive science, social psychology, the media, creativity, and more. It truly is a tour de force by an author who has thought long and hard about the knottiest problems in critical thinking. John Eigenauer, Professor of Philosophy, Taft College