Common sense is a term that is often used to describe practical and rational thinking. It is something that we are expected to possess and use in our daily lives. However, as many of us have experienced, common sense is not always common nor sensible. In fact, it can often lead us astray and hinder our ability to think critically.
The phrase “common sense” was first coined by the philosopher John Locke in the 17th century. He believed that it was a natural ability that all humans possess, and it is what separates us from animals. But in today’s world, where we are bombarded with information and opinions from various sources, it is becoming increasingly difficult to rely on our common sense alone.
The truth is, common sense is not as common as we think it is. It is shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and biases, which can often cloud our judgment and lead us to make irrational decisions. We tend to rely on our instincts and emotions rather than logic and reasoning, especially when faced with complex issues. This is where critical thinking comes in.
Critical thinking is the ability to analyze and evaluate information objectively, without being influenced by personal biases or emotions. It involves asking questions, examining evidence, and considering different perspectives before coming to a conclusion. It is a skill that can be learned and honed, and it is essential in today’s world where we are constantly bombarded with information that may not always be accurate or reliable.
So why is it important to make critical thinking common sense? The answer is simple – it is crucial for our personal and societal well-being. In a world where fake news and misinformation are rampant, critical thinking is our best defense. It allows us to sift through the noise and make informed decisions based on facts and evidence. It also helps us to identify and challenge our own biases, which is crucial for personal growth and development.
But critical thinking is not just about making sense of the world around us; it also has practical applications in our daily lives. It enables us to solve problems more effectively, make better decisions, and communicate more clearly and persuasively. It also encourages us to be open-minded and consider different perspectives, which is essential for healthy relationships and a harmonious society.
Unfortunately, critical thinking is not something that is taught in most schools or emphasized enough in our education system. We are often taught to memorize and regurgitate information rather than question and analyze it. This is a missed opportunity as critical thinking is a skill that can benefit us in all aspects of our lives – from our personal relationships to our careers.
That is why I am excited to announce our new blog series – Making Critical Thinking Common Sense. Through this series, we aim to promote critical thinking as a necessary and valuable skill that everyone should possess. We will explore different aspects of critical thinking and provide practical tips and strategies to help you develop and apply this skill in your daily life.
We will also delve into the importance of critical thinking in different fields, such as science, politics, and business. We will discuss how critical thinking can help us navigate complex issues and make sense of conflicting information. Our goal is to make critical thinking accessible and relatable to everyone, regardless of their background or profession.
In conclusion, common sense may not always be common or sensible, but critical thinking can help us make sense of the world around us. It is a skill that is essential for personal growth, decision-making, and creating a better society. So join us on this journey of making critical thinking common sense, and let’s empower ourselves and others to think critically and make informed decisions. Stay tuned for our first post in the series – coming soon on Social Science Space.
