In today’s fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the sheer amount of information available at our fingertips. Constant connectivity has led us to rely more heavily on technology to carry out everyday tasks, which can often result in a diminished capacity for independent thought. This phenomenon has led to the gradual erosion of the art of thinking, a vital skill that has shaped the course of human history and development.
Critical Thinking and Decision Making
Critical thinking and decision-making skills are crucial for navigating through the complexities of modern life. However, with the ubiquity of algorithms and artificial intelligence, people are increasingly allowing technology to make their everyday choices for them. From selecting which movie to watch, to picking a partner, or even choosing the most convenient route to work, we no longer engage in the process of mental weighing and sifting of information.
This dependency upon technology has the potential to have a lasting impact on our ability to think critically and make nuanced judgements. As we surrender more of our cognitive domain to digital platforms, we risk losing the capacity to engage in competent and informed decision-making.
This problem is compounded by the fact that many educational systems emphasise memorisation and regurgitation over critical thinking and problem-solving, which can stifle creativity and curiosity.
The Attention Economy and Its Impact on Cognition
The rise of the attention economy—where information is abundant and attention is the scarce resource—has had a significant impact on people’s cognitive abilities. Social media platforms and smart devices constantly vie for our attention, causing us to become easily distracted and reducing our ability to focus on single tasks, as we struggle with information overload. This heightened state of distraction can lead to shorter attention spans and decreased concentration, having a detrimental effect on our overall mental well-being. What’s more, watching TV, scrolling through social media, and playing video games are activities that require minimal thought and can distract us from more challenging pursuits.
Furthermore, as distractions claim an increasingly larger share of our mental bandwidth, we are less likely to engage in important cognitive activities such as daydreaming, introspection, or deep, contemplative thought. These periods of mental reflection have long been important sources of inspiration, creativity, and problem-solving for human beings.
Reclaiming the Art of Thinking
Reclaiming the lost art of thinking requires conscious effort and a renewed commitment to prioritising independent thought and mental autonomy. Here are a few ways to foster and nurture cognitive abilities:
1. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of cultivating a non-judgemental awareness of the present moment. This involves focussing on the breath, observing thoughts and sensations without judgement, and fostering a greater sense of mental clarity and focus.
2. Deliberate and reflective decision-making: Make a conscious effort to engage in deliberate and reflective decision-making, rather than relying on algorithms and artificial intelligence. Learn how to weigh information, evaluate alternatives, and make informed judgements based on a nuanced understanding of the world. Seek to identify and counteract any confirmation bias habits, which behaviour leads to seeking out information that confirms our existing beliefs, rather than challenging them, because this can lead to intellectual stagnation and a lack of open-mindedness.
3. The art of conversation: Engage in stimulating conversations with others to foster critical thought and mutual understanding. Allow for extended periods of silence to permit introspection and self-reflection. Active listening, self-awareness, and empathy are essential elements of fruitful dialogue.
4. Disconnect from devices: Set aside regular periods of time to disconnect from digital devices and engage in activities that foster mental stimulation, such as reading, writing, and creative pursuits.
5. Deep learning and continuous growth: Commit to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and understanding. Engage in challenging activities that foster intellectual growth and expand your cognitive horizons.
The Importance of Thinking
Thinking is a fundamental human ability that allows us to make decisions, solve problems, and understand the world around us. It is through thinking that we develop our creativity, empathy, and critical thinking skills. When we don’t think for ourselves, we become passive consumers of information. We may believe everything we read or hear without questioning its validity. This can lead to misinformation, prejudice, and a lack of intellectual curiosity. Make it a habit therefore, when you encounter information, to evaluate its credibility, to identify biases, and consider alternative explanations. Don’t just accept everything you hear as true.
The lost art of thinking is a serious problem that has far-reaching consequences for society. By reclaiming this essential skill, we can become more informed, open-minded, and critical citizens. Let us not succumb to the distractions of the modern world but instead embrace the joy and power of thinking.
Worldwide Temple of Aurora 