Critical thinking, noun:

: The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment

 

Critical thinking encompasses the ideas of conceptualization, analysis, application, evaluation, and recommendation. The best way to develop these skills typically stems from practice. On a personal level, a prime anecdote of me employing critical thinking skills was a research paper for a class that required me to assess how a conflict scenario between Taiwan and Mainland China would occur.

 

Before beginning my research, I knew I wanted to conceptualize how a conflict between China and Taiwan would be carried out. Because of increased investment in Taiwanese air defense capabilities, I decided to research Mainland China’s ability to degrade these capabilities. Therefore, I focused on Chinese short-range ballistic missile capabilities (SRBM) and Taiwanese rapid runway repair (RRR).

 

While conducting this research, I analyzed how RRR is conducted and the capabilities required, Taiwanese RRR capabilities, and Mainland Chinese ballistic missile capabilities and strategy. After analyzing this information, I applied the knowledge by developing a military analysis of a Mainland Chinese attack on Taiwan, such as assessing the order of attack and likely targets.

 

My evaluation of the issue concluded that Mainland China would primarily target Taiwanese runways in order to obtain control over Taiwanese airspace. Although Taiwan has highly developed and effective RRR capabilities, China would likely be able to disrupt RRR through its ballistic missiles. Without access to runways, Taiwan will not be able to maintain control over its airspace, which could possibly influence a Cross Strait conflict concluding in favor of Mainland China. In conclusion, I recommended that Taiwan should continue its focus on developing RRR capabilities in order to prevent a PRC victory and sustain its air sovereignty.

 

This paper required me to conduct research in both Mandarin Chinese and English, interview subject matter experts, and also conduct extensive analysis. I was able to develop my critical thinking skills by extensively researching this issue, and then applying that knowledge along with new information to accurately assess the situation, evaluate possible solutions, and create recommendations.

​

In order to read this text in its entirety, follow this link:

​

​