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Originally Posted by Casiopea Very insightful.  Prepositional phrases don't require a subject, [1], whereas verbs, [2], even infinitives, [3], do.
[1] thus critical to(wards) understanding
[2] thus critical that we understand
[3] thus critical in order for us to understand |
Why would you not view "to understand" as an infinitive? There is a choice between an infinitive and a gerund here. However,
if we view "to" as a preposition, then, yes, it has to be followed by a gerund.
"to understand" - infinitive.
Would you use "critical towards understanding" in writing or speaking? I wouldn't call it a strong combination of words.