b. 1927
Robert H. Ennis is an American philosopher of education best known for his foundational work in critical thinking theory. He developed influential definitions and taxonomies of critical thinking that shaped both educational research and pedagogy. His work established critical thinking as a legitimate field of philosophical and educational inquiry.
Developed one of the most widely cited definitions of critical thinking as 'reasonable reflective thinking focused on deciding what to believe or do'
Created the Cornell Critical Thinking Tests, standard instruments for measuring critical thinking ability
Authored the critical thinking taxonomy distinguishing dispositions from abilities
Engaged in influential debates with John McPeck defending the existence of general critical thinking skills across domains
Contributed foundational work on the logic of causal claims in educational research