Critics are publicly accepted and, to a significant degree,

followed because of the quality of their assessments or

their reputation. Influential critics
of art, music, theater and architecture often present their
arguments in complete books. One very famous example
is John Ruskin's Seven Lamps of Architecture and The
Stones of Venice. Critics may base their assessment on a
range of theoretical positions. For instance, they may take
a feminist or Freudian perspective.[1]
Unlike other individuals who may editorialize on subjects
via websites or letters written to publications, professional
critics are paid to produce their assessment and opinions
for print, radio, magazine, television, or Internet
companies. When their personal opinion outweighs
considered judgment, people who give opinions, whether
on current events, public affairs, sports, media or art are
often referred to as "pundits" instead of critics.
Critics are themselves subject to competing critics, since
the final critical judgment always entails subjectivity. An
established critic can play a powerful role as a
public arbiter of taste or opinion. Also, critics or a
coordinated group of critics, may award symbols of
recognition.

These 21st-century skills are more important to

students now than ever before. They not only provide a
framework for successful learning in the classroom, but
ensure students can thrive in a world where
change is constant and learning never stops. And they are
also tremendously important for our nation's well
being.