Fundamental principle: Critical thinking can help individuals liberate themselves from prejudiced thinking, says the writer. — 123rf
ONE of the core values that the Rapera movement I founded seeks to encourage is the willingness and the ability to think, especially critical thinking.
In a world inundated with information, where opinions are easily disseminated and ideologies can be imposed, the ability to think critically becomes a powerful tool for emancipation. Critical thinking, the process of analysing and evaluating information to make informed decisions, is the key to breaking free from the shackles of intellectual and emotional servitude. Cultivating critical thinking skills empowers individuals to liberate themselves from the various forms of slavery that pervade our society.
Before delving into the liberating power of critical thinking, it is essential to understand the multifaceted nature of slavery in contemporary society. Traditional forms of physical enslavement have been largely abolished but subtle and insidious forms of servitude persist. Mental and emotional enslavement, often perpetuated through biased information, propaganda and manipulation, can be just as restrictive as physical chains.
In the arena of political and religious realms, bondage to many concepts and ideas impedes many of us from evolving into inclusive and progressive human beings. Critical thinking serves as a beacon of light in the darkness of misinformation, offering individuals the means to question, analyse, and form independent judgments.
By cultivating critical thinking skills, individuals can break free from the mental bonds imposed by societal norms, biased narratives, and manipulative agendas.
Critical thinking frees your life from being controlled by the manipulation of fear and hope.
One of the primary ways critical thinking liberates individuals is by helping them recognise and overcome cognitive biases. These biases, inherent in human thought processes, can cloud judgment and perpetuate narrow perspectives. Critical thinking prompts individuals to question their assumptions, challenge preconceived notions, and seek a more comprehensive understanding of the world.
For example, individuals may hold implicit biases based on race, religion, or socioeconomic status. Critical thinking encourages them to examine these biases, understand their origin, and consciously work towards overcoming them. In doing so, individuals liberate themselves from the mental constraints imposed by prejudiced thinking. It is almost impossible to achieve unity in a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society if citizens allow themselves to be slaves to divisive narratives without critical evaluation of those narratives.
Critical thinking is also the cornerstone of informed decision- making. When individuals approach problems or choices with a critical mindset, they are better equipped to assess available information, weigh different perspectives, and make decisions aligned with their values and goals. This empowerment through rational decision-making is a key factor in breaking free from external influences that seek to manipulate or coerce individuals into conformity.
In a society bombarded with advertisements, political rhetoric, and persuasive messaging, critical thinking acts as a shield against manipulation. By scrutinising information and discerning between fact and opinion, individuals can make decisions that are truly reflective of their own beliefs and desires, rather than succumbing to external pressures.
The rise of misinformation and propaganda in the digital age further underscores the urgency of cultivating critical thinking skills. Propaganda often seeks to control narratives, manipulate public opinion, and create a distorted reality. Critical thinking enables individuals to question the authenticity of information, fact-check sources, and resist the allure of misleading narratives.
For instance, during political campaigns, individuals bombarded with biased news and propaganda may succumb to a form of intellectual slavery, adopting viewpoints without careful consideration. Critical thinking liberates them from this bondage, fostering an environment where individuals can analyse information critically, form their own opinions, and resist being swayed by deceptive tactics.
Crucially, critical thinking goes beyond individual empowerment; it also has the potential to dismantle systemic and cultural forms of slavery. Societal norms and cultural expectations often shape individuals’ beliefs and behaviours. Critical thinking encourages individuals to question these norms, challenge the status quo, and advocate for change when necessary.
For example, in cultures where gender roles are rigidly defined, critical thinking empowers individuals to question these norms, leading to greater gender equality and freedom of choice. By breaking free from societal expectations, individuals contribute to the dismantling of cultural chains that perpetuate inequality and limit personal freedom. Critical thinking, as a liberating force, is indispensable in navigating the complexities of the modern world. In a society where misinformation, manipulation, and conformity threaten individual autonomy, the ability to think critically becomes an essential tool for breaking free from various forms of slavery.
By cultivating critical thinking skills, individuals can overcome cognitive biases, make informed decisions, resist propaganda, and challenge societal norms. In doing so, they not only liberate themselves but also contribute to the collective liberation from the chains that bind the human intellect and spirit. In short, critical thinking allows you to live the life you choose and not the life of a rat in a maze.
Senior lawyer Datuk Seri Dr Jahaberdeen Mohamed Yunoos is the founder of Rapera, a movement which encourages critical thinking and compassion among Malaysians. The views expressed here are entirely his own.
