Linda Elder

Dr. Linda Elder stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of educational psychology, profoundly influencing the discourse on critical thinking. As the President of the Foundation for Critical Thinking and the Executive Director of the Center for Critical Thinking, Dr. Elder has dedicated her career to advancing the understanding and application of analytical reasoning. Her expertise is further enriched by her extensive experience teaching psychology and critical thinking at the collegiate level, where she has engaged with over 20,000 educators across various academic stages. Among her co-authored works, "Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Learning and Your Life" remains a cornerstone in the field, offering readers a structured approach to enhancing their cognitive skills. This seminal text, alongside "Critical Thinking: Tools for Taking Charge of Your Professional and Personal Life" and "Twenty-Five Days to Better Thinking and Better Living," encapsulates the essence of her scholarly pursuits. Dr. Elder's contributions include an impressive array of eighteen thinker’s guides, and she regularly shares her insights through a quarterly column in the Journal of Developmental Education. Dr. Elder's writing style is characterized by its clarity and depth, effectively bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Her work delves into the intricate relationship between cognition and emotion, highlighting the obstacles to effective critical thinking. Through her scholarly contributions, Dr. Elder has not only enhanced educational practices but has also forged pathways for individuals to cultivate more reflective and informed lives. Her dynamic presentations and comprehensive understanding of educational challenges have solidified her standing as a leading voice in the field of critical thinking.