Drawing on research from psychology, philosophy, business, political science, and neuroscience, illiam T. Gormley offers a contemporary definition of critical thinking and its relationship to other forms of thinking, including creative thinking and problem solving. When defined broadly and taught early, he argues, critical thinking is a ""potential cure for some of the biggest problems we face".

In TheCritical Advantage, William T. Gormley, Jr. takes a wide-ranging look at the important role of critical thinking in preparing students for college, careers, and civic life. He takes readers into innovative classrooms around the country and offers specific recommendations for promoting critical thinking and embedding it across the curriculum. The Critical Advantage is an insightful and fascinating account of an intellectual journey culminating in a fresh vision for the future of US schooling.

"Is critical thinking the key to making sure our youth are ready for college, careers, and civic engagement? Gormley makes a persuasive case that it is. The book provides important guidance for educators on how to build the culture and structures to promote critical thinking."
--Betsy Brand, executive director, American Youth Policy Forum

"The Critical Advantage is one of the most thoughtful and useful explorations of critical thinking I have read. A refreshing, digestible, and much-needed read for this time."
--Terrel L. Rhodes, vice president, Office of Quality, Curriculum and Assessment, and executive director of VALUE, Association of American Colleges and Universities

"Gormley provides many rich examples of how educators can help children and youth to develop critical thinking skills that are important to success in college, in careers, and in civic life. Reading this book will help educators reflect on the ways that they interact with children and the ways that they can help them to become effective critical thinkers."
--Richard J. Murnane, Thompson Research Professor, Harvard University Graduate School of Education

William T. Gormley, Jr. is a university professor and professor of public policy and government at Georgetown University, and is also the codirector of the Center for Research on Children in the United States.