Is it time for Critical Thinking to Take Centre Stage?
Critical thinking entails objectively analysing a topic, considering all perspectives, evaluating with an open mind, and weighing short- and long-term implications to reach a conclusion.
The world has changed dramatically in the last thirty years. This is no more apparent than in the way people think. While many believe that critical thinking has long been ingrained in society, understanding generational mindsets and analysing key cultural shifts is essential to ascertain the validity of this belief.
Baby Boomers and Gen Xers are often seen as critical thinkers, influenced by exposure to a less curated world and the insights of historical figures. However, did prevailing cultural norms inhibit critical thinking? In the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, home life was often patriarchal, workplaces were hierarchical, authority figures in schools maintained significant control, and the government was rife with social hierarchy and elitism. While they were not bombarded with content and data, their mindsets may have been restricted by limited opportunities for decision-making and expressing thoughts, making it challenging to cultivate critical thinking
The world had seen many societal changes by the 1990s and 2000s, including; recognition of gender equality, flatter hierarchical structures in business, more student-centered approach in schools and significant civil right reform in government.
However, the opportunity for Millennials and Gen Zs to develop critical thinking was potentially hindered by the birth of social media, particularly with the introduction of the 'like' button on Facebook and the 'retweet' feature on Twitter in 2009. These innovations revolutionised the space, granting access to algorithm-driven content curation. Prior to facebook and twitter, social interactions were primarily limited to school, university, or work, offering exposure to diverse perspectives. However, the rise of social media led to the formation of echo chambers, as individuals began clustering with like-minded peers, fostering increased polarisation.
Living in an echo chamber jeopardises the capacity to engage constructively with opposing viewpoints. By limiting exposure to alternative perspectives, you may overlook opportunities to both influence and be influenced by others.
Stepping into 2024 do we finally possess the optimal conditions to foster critical thinking, both on an individual and collective level?
We have open access to information due to the internet. We have cultural freedom to seek out all perspectives. And we have a multitude of platforms to voice our conclusions.
This could mark the first instance in human history where individual and societal alignment enables the genuine opportunity for critical thinking. Nevertheless, to achieve this requires personal commitment and engagement in the following ways.
Self Awareness — be attuned to your own beliefs, values, and personal experiences. Take time to understand yourself. Be aware of how you come across, be approachable and receptive to other points of view.
Introspection — be aware of your own prejudices with regards to your beliefs, values and personal experiences. It’s important to be wrong on a regular basis. Be able to recite, with ease, recent conversations where you were wrong.
Open-Mindedness — consider alternatives and see things from other perspectives. This includes encouraging discussion and consideration of opposing points of view. Be able to recount recent occasions where your mind has been changed on a subject.
Intellectually Curiosity — Recognise that widely embraced conclusions may not always be accurate, and credible information does not guarantee factual accuracy. Context matters. Diversify your sources by reading and listening to various news outlets. Actively engage with family and friends who offer diverse life experiences and perspectives from your own
It is time for Critical Thinking to Take Centre Stage.