Introduction
Welcome to Cultivating Critical Thinking: Integrating Practical Reasoning in Family & Consumer Sciences, a comprehensive guide to applying the principles of practical reasoning within the dynamic field of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS). Grounded in the practical reasoning (critical science) perspective, this book explores how FCS/human sciences professionals can address complex, ethically significant issues to empower individuals, families, and communities in a rapidly evolving global society.
The foundational work of visionaries such as Ellen Swallow Richards, Marjorie Brown, and Beatrice Paolucci provides the cornerstone for this text. Their contributions emphasize the importance of shifting from reactive, technical problem-solving to proactive, ethical reasoning that seeks sustainable, just solutions. This book invites readers to engage with the practical reasoning perspective—a framework that encourages thoughtful reflection, interdisciplinary collaboration, and transformative action.
Designed for educators, practitioners, and students, this text bridges historical perspectives with contemporary challenges, demonstrating the relevance and adaptability of practical reasoning in addressing perennial and emerging problems. From fostering democratic citizenship through critical literacy to designing impactful curricula, the chapters provide actionable insights, theoretical underpinnings, and real-world applications.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the field, this book will challenge you to rethink traditional approaches, expand your perspective, and embrace the transformative potential of practical reasoning in your work. By the end, you will be equipped not only with a deeper understanding of practical reasoning but also with the tools to drive meaningful change within the FCS/human sciences profession and beyond.
As with any resource, we acknowledge that this book is part of a continually evolving conversation. We welcome and encourage your feedback, insights, and suggestions for improvement. Your experiences and perspectives are invaluable to ensuring this text remains relevant, inclusive, and impactful for future readers. If you find areas that could benefit from further explanation, examples that could be expanded, or new topics that should be addressed, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contributions from readers like you help us refine and enhance the material, ensuring it meets the needs of today’s FCS/human sciences professionals and students.
Together, we can continue to strengthen the practical reasoning framework and its application in Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, ensuring that it remains a vital tool for fostering positive change. We look forward to hearing from you!
Thank you,
Cynthia L. Miller, Ph.D., Nicole C. Wanago, Ph.D., and Dylan T. Hinkle, Ph.D.
