Armed Violence as a Challenge to National Security: Critical Thinking Perspectives

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The purpose of this study is to identify the role and skills of critical thinking in the context of hybrid warfare, as well as to explore ways to develop it. The following methods were used in the study: system and complex analysis, structural and functional analysis, historical analysis, analysis and synthesis, critical analysis, conceptual modeling, and generalization of existing knowledge. The findings revealed that conventional approaches to ensuring national security, such as increasing military power, are insufficient in the context of hybrid warfare. It is argued that in order to strengthen Ukraine’s national security, it is crucial to adopt new approaches, particularly those focused on developing the intellectual potential of society. The study proves that the purposeful development of citizens’ critical thinking can play a key role in increasing Ukraine's resilience to the information and psychological threats posed by hybrid warfare. Critical thinking enables individuals to better identify and resist fakes, propaganda, and manipulation. The practical significance of this study lies in substantiating the strategic importance of critical thinking for Ukraine's national security.