These are some notes I jotted down way back when in Bryan Pfaffenberger‘s class back at UVA. These are things I still keep in mind today as I’m reading and writing about technology, globalization, and culture…
Seven Attributes of Critical Thought
- Awareness of potential distortion in the way the world is presented by others.
- Awareness of limitations in our own perception of reality.
- Ability to recognize mental blocks, overgeneralizations, and false rationalizations.
- Ability to be honest with oneself.
- Ability to be persuaded by the facts, once established.
- Ability to think independently of peer pressure.
- Whole-brain thinking.
Considering social, political, and ethical contexts
- Who are the stakeholders?
- Where is the action taking place?
- What are the stakeholders’ interests?
- Why are they pursuing their interests?
- How are they pursuing their interests?
- Who will lose?
Argue a thesis, present supporting evidence, consider the opposing side to the argument, and assess the implications of what you’ve argued.
