In modern education, rational thinking is understood as the ability to think independently, perform logical analysis, formulate well-founded conclusions, and make responsible decisions in a social context. This article explores the theoretical foundations of developing students' rational thinking in the context of social interactions. Social relations are considered not only as a means of communication but also as a key factor in the development of thought processes. Based on L.S. Vygotsky's theory of socio-cultural development and J. Dewey and D. Schön's models of reflective thinking, the mechanisms of rational thinking development are analyzed. Theoretical approaches used in European countries are also considered.

Rational thinking, social relations, theoretical foundations, socio-cultural theory, reflective thinking, pedagogical conditions, logical analysis, critical thinking, group relations, psychological and pedagogical conditions, educational process.

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press. https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctvjnrttd

Dewey, J. (1933). How We Think: A Restatement of the Relation of Reflective Thinking to the Educative Process. D.C. Heath & Co.

Schön, D. A. (1983). The Reflective Practitioner: How Professionals Think in Action. Basic Books.

OECD (2019). OECD Learning Compass 2030: A Framework for Student Agency and Transformative Competencies. Paris: OECD Publishing. https://www.oecd.org/education/2030-project/

Paul, R., & Elder, L. (2006). Critical Thinking: The Nature of Critical and Creative Thought. Journal of Developmental Education, 30(2), 34–35.

Karimova, N. (2021). Pedagogik jarayonda ratsional tafakkurning rivojlanishi. Tashkent: O‘qituvchi.

Rahmonov, S. (2020). Ijtimoiy kompetensiyani shakllantirishning zamonaviy pedagogik mexanizmlari. Pedagogika nazariyasi, 3(45), 22–30.

European Commission (2020). Key Competences for Lifelong Learning. Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union. https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/297a33c8-6497-11ea-b735-01aa75ed71a1