Kritik

Kritik is a German noun meaning critical examination, assessment, or critique. Etymologically, it derives from Greek kritikos 'able to judge' through Latin critica, and in many languages related terms are used to refer to systematic evaluation rather than mere complaint.

In philosophy, kritik denotes a method of examining the foundations, limits, and validity of knowledge, judgment, and action. Immanuel Kant popularized the term with his Kritik der reinen Vernunft (Critique of Pure Reason), arguing that reason has specific structural limits and that knowledge arises from the interaction of sensory experience with concepts. He also wrote Kritik der praktischen Vernunft and Kritik der Urteilskraft. In this sense, critique aims to determine what reason can achieve, what it cannot, and how concepts gain legitimacy.

Beyond philosophy, kritik is used in literature, art, and science to denote evaluative analysis. A critique discusses strengths, weaknesses, methods, and implications, usually with argument and justification. In science, peer review functions as a form of critique; in political and social theory, critical theory applies reflective critique to reveal power relations and social structures.

In everyday language, kritik can mean both objective evaluation and negative fault-finding; the nuance depends on context and tone. Critical thinking involves the disciplined use of reason to analyze claims, evidence, and assumptions, aiming for well-supported judgments rather than personal opinion.