Ask Questions
The first step of thinking critically is to be curious. Instead of accepting statements and claims at face value, question them. Here are a few suggestions:
- When you come across an idea or a statement that you consider interesting, confusing, or suspicious, first ask yourself what it means.
- Do you fully understand what is being said, or do you need to pause and think to make sense of the idea?
- Do you agree with the statement? Why or why not?
- Can the statement or idea be interpreted in more than one way?
Don’t stop there.
- Ask whether you can trust the person or group making a particular claim, and ask whether there is enough evidence to back up that claim (more on this later).
- Ask who might agree or disagree and why.
- Ask how a new concept relates to what you already know.
- Think about where you might find more information about the subject, and what you could do with what you learn.
- Finally, ask yourself about the effects of accepting a new idea as truth.
Will you have to change or give up what you have believed in for a long time?-
Will it require you to do something differently?
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Will it be necessary to examine the issue further?
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Should you try to bring other people around to a new way of thinking?
YOUR TURN > DISCUSS IT
Imagine that your state has just approved a license plate design including a cross and the slogan “I Believe.” Almost immediately, a number of organizations begin protesting that this is a violation of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. What questions should you ask to get at the truth? Be prepared to share these questions with the class.
Comparison Shopping
Use your critical thinking abilities to practice healthy skepticism in your life—shopping is a great opportunity to practice. What questions do you need to ask to find out if a deal is really a deal? What examples from your own life can you think of?
Source: © Randy Glasbergen