Which of the following is the purpose of critical thinking?

A) to form well-reasoned and fair-minded judgments regarding what to believe or what to do
B) to promote an uncritical method of reaching firm conclusions about what is or is not true
C) to make decisions about a situation based on quick and reactive judgments
D) to arrive at decisions without wasting time analyzing every option

Critical thinking is the process of analyzing and evaluating information to form well-reasoned and fair-minded judgments regarding what to believe or what to do. It involves using logical and analytical skills to assess arguments and evidence, considering multiple perspectives, and being open to changing one's beliefs or actions based on new information. Choices B, C, and D are all incorrect because they involve either uncritical thinking, quick and reactive judgments, or a disregard for careful analysis and consideration of options.