top of page
aurora element.png

How to Think in a World That Doesn't: 5 Essential Methods for Maintaining Your Intellect

Updated: May 28




It often feels like we're living in a "stupid society" 1. Everywhere you look, misinformation spreads like wildfire, critical thinking seems to be a dying art, and nuanced discussion is replaced by sound bites and shallow arguments. In a society that often discourages questioning and promotes conformity, it can be challenging to maintain your own intellectual integrity and continue to grow as a thinker 2. But don't despair! There are proven methods for sharpening your mind and navigating the sea of noise with clarity and confidence.


This article provides five practical strategies for enhancing your thinking skills, presented in a clear and concise way. Consider this your toolkit for intellectual self-defense in a world that often seems determined to dumb itself down.


1. The Scientific Method: Your Guide to Objective Truth

The scientific method is a systematic approach to understanding the world around us. It's a process for acquiring knowledge based on observation, experimentation, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses. Here's how to apply it in your everyday life:






Step

Description

Ask a Question

Start with a question about something you observe. How does the economy affect me?  Who to believe in an election year? What is the best way to learn a new language?

Do Background Research

Gather information about your question. Read books, articles, and websites. Talk to experts. narrow down the most common trust source of information and compare the subject with how it relates to your subjective and objective understanding.

Construct a Hypothesis

Formulate a testable explanation for your observation. This is your educated guess about the answer to your question. 


Test Your Hypothesis

Design and conduct an experiment to test your hypothesis. Collect data and analyze the results. Consider the Facts you’ve gathered versus other presented data and compare the cause and effects for sensibilities. 

Analyze Your Data and Draw a Conclusion

Determine whether your hypothesis was supported or refuted by the experiment source and based on material evidence. 

Communicate Your Results

Share your findings with others. This could involve writing a report, giving a presentation, or simply discussing your conclusions with friends and family.

Why This Matters:

In a world awash in opinions and biases, the scientific method provides a framework for objective analysis and truth-seeking. It encourages you to question assumptions, test ideas, and base your conclusions on evidence.



2. Critical Thinking: Sharpen Your BS Detector

Critical thinking is the ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments. It's about evaluating arguments, identifying biases, and separating fact from fiction. It also requires us to embrace our own ignorance and be willing to question even our most deeply held assumptions 2. Here's a simplified guide:






Element

Explanation

Identify the Issue and the Conclusion

What is the main point being argued? What is the author trying to persuade you to believe?

Identify the Reasons

What evidence or arguments are presented to support the conclusion?

Identify Ambiguous Words or Phrases

Are there any terms that are unclear or open to interpretation?

Identify Value Conflicts and Assumptions

Does the author have any biases or underlying assumptions that might influence their argument?

Evaluate the Quality of the Reasoning

Are the arguments logical and well-supported? Are there any fallacies or errors in reasoning?

Evaluate How Well the Evidence Supports the Reasons

Is the evidence credible and relevant? Does it actually support the claims being made?

Come to a Conclusion

Based on your analysis, determine whether you agree or disagree with the conclusion.

Cognitive Flexibility: Expanding Your Perspective

A key aspect of critical thinking is cognitive flexibility 3. This means being able to consider different perspectives and points of view, even those that challenge your own beliefs. It's about being open to new information and being willing to change your mind when presented with compelling evidence.


Clarifying Your Purpose and Context

Before diving into critical analysis, it's crucial to clarify your own purpose and context 4. What are you trying to achieve by thinking critically about this issue? What are your own biases and assumptions? Understanding your own motivations and perspectives can help you to approach the analysis with greater objectivity.


Challenging Your Biases

We all have biases that can cloud our judgment. Critical thinking requires us to be aware of these biases and to actively challenge them 5. Some common biases include:

  • Confirmation bias: The tendency to seek out and interpret information that confirms our existing beliefs.

  • Heuristics: Mental shortcuts that can lead to inaccurate judgments.

  • Framing effects: The way information is presented can influence how we perceive it.

For example, if you're reading an article about a political issue, ask yourself whether you're more likely to believe information that supports your existing political views. Are you overlooking evidence that contradicts your beliefs? By being aware of these biases, you can take steps to mitigate their influence on your thinking.


Identifying and Following Experts

In a world of misinformation, it's essential to be able to identify and follow experts 6. Critical thinking can help you to discern between credible and unreliable sources of information. Look for experts who have relevant credentials, a strong track record, and a commitment to objectivity.


Why This Matters:

Critical thinking empowers you to be a discerning consumer of information. It helps you to see through propaganda, identify faulty reasoning, and make informed decisions. In a "stupid society," this skill is essential for maintaining your intellectual independence.



3. Socratic Questioning: The Art of Probing Deeper

Socratic questioning is a method of inquiry based on asking questions to stimulate critical thinking and illuminate ideas. It's about challenging assumptions, exploring different perspectives, and arriving at a deeper understanding.


the death of Socrates
the death of Socrates

How to Use Socratic Questioning:

  1. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of asking questions with a simple yes or no answer, ask questions that encourage thoughtful responses. For example, instead of asking "Is climate change real?" ask "What are the different perspectives on climate change, and what evidence supports each view?"

  2. Ask Probing Questions: Delve deeper into the responses you receive. Ask "Why?" or "How?" to encourage further explanation and exploration. For instance, if someone argues that a particular policy is beneficial, ask "How does this policy actually benefit people?" or "What are the potential downsides of this policy?"

  3. Ask Clarifying Questions: Ensure that you understand the other person's perspective. Ask for clarification on any points that are unclear or ambiguous. For example, if someone mentions "systemic bias," ask them to clarify what they mean by "systemic" and how that bias operates.

  4. Ask Challenging Questions: Don't be afraid to question assumptions and challenge the status quo. This can lead to new insights and a deeper understanding of the issue. For example, if someone claims that a particular historical event was inevitable, ask "What factors could have prevented this event from happening?"

  5. Ask Hypothetical Questions: Explore different possibilities and scenarios. "What if...?" questions can help to stimulate creative thinking and problem-solving. For example, "What if we approached this problem from a completely different angle?" or "What if the opposite of what we believe is true?"

  6. Ask Leading Questions: Guide the conversation in a particular direction. This can be useful for exploring specific aspects of an issue or for helping someone to arrive at a particular conclusion. For example, "Given the evidence we've discussed, wouldn't you agree that...?"


Why This Matters:

Socratic questioning is a powerful tool for learning and self-discovery. It helps you to move beyond superficial understanding and engage with ideas on a deeper level. In a society that often discourages questioning and critical thinking, this method can be a valuable asset.



4. Mindfulness: Cultivating Inner Clarity

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It's about cultivating awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations.



How to Practice Mindfulness:

  1. Pay Attention to the Present Moment: Focus on your breath, your body, or your surroundings. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you.

  2. Be Non-Judgmental: Observe your thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad. Simply acknowledge them and let them go.

  3. Be Accepting: Accept things as they are, without trying to change them. This doesn't mean you have to like everything, but it does mean acknowledging reality without resistance.

  4. Be Patient: Mindfulness takes practice. Be patient with yourself and don't expect to become an expert overnight.

  5. Be Curious: Approach your experiences with curiosity and an open mind.

  6. Be Kind to Yourself: Treat yourself with compassion and understanding.


Why This Matters:

In a world of constant distractions and information overload, mindfulness can help you to find inner peace and clarity. It allows you to step back from the noise and connect with your own thoughts and feelings. This can be invaluable for maintaining your intellectual focus and emotional well-being in a "stupid society."



5. Creative Thinking: Break Free from the Herd Mentality



Creative thinking is the ability to generate new ideas and find innovative solutions to problems. It's about thinking outside the box and embracing new possibilities.

How to Think Creatively:

  1. Brainstorm Ideas: Generate a large number of ideas without judgment. Don't censor yourself or worry about whether the ideas are good or bad.

  2. Make Connections Between Seemingly Unrelated Things: Look for patterns and connections between things that don't seem to be related. This can lead to new insights and unexpected solutions.

  3. Take Risks: Don't be afraid to try new things and experiment. Failure is a part of the creative process.

  4. Be Open to New Ideas: Be receptive to new ideas, even if they challenge your existing beliefs.

  5. Don't Be Afraid to Fail: Failure is an opportunity to learn and grow. Don't let the fear of failure hold you back from exploring new possibilities.

  6. Have Fun! Creative thinking should be enjoyable. Relax, let your mind wander, and see where it takes you.


Why This Matters:

In a society that often values conformity and discourages originality, creative thinking is essential for maintaining your intellectual independence and finding new solutions to old problems. It allows you to break free from the herd mentality and forge your own path.






Final Thought: Thrive in a World of Stupidity

Maintaining your intellect in a "stupid society" requires constant effort and vigilance. But by cultivating these five methods of thought – the scientific method, critical thinking, Socratic questioning, mindfulness, and creative thinking – you can stay sharp, continue to learn and grow, and navigate the world with clarity and confidence.

These methods are not mutually exclusive; they complement and reinforce each other. For example, mindfulness can help you approach critical thinking with less bias, allowing for a more objective analysis of information. Creative thinking can lead to new ways of applying the scientific method, generating innovative hypotheses and experiments. Socratic questioning can be used to challenge assumptions and deepen your understanding of any of these methods.

The unfortunate truth is that "stupid people" can exist even in "smart societies" 7. Therefore, the responsibility for intellectual growth and clarity of thought ultimately rests on each individual. By actively engaging with these methods, you not only protect yourself from the insidious effects of intellectual complacency but also contribute to a more thoughtful and discerning world.

Remember to question everything, seek evidence, embrace new ideas, and never stop learning. Your mind is your most valuable asset – protect it, nurture it, and use it wisely.





Works cited

1. why do i act stupid and low iq around people and m always aware of it - Reddit, accessed January 15, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/internetparents/comments/qtyvdt/why_do_i_act_stupid_and_low_iq_around_people_and/

2. Stop Doing This Stupid Thing To Be More Intelligent - YouTube, accessed January 15, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8M8HSJxeaXw

3. How to Improve Your Critical Thinking, accessed January 15, 2025, https://wertheim.scripps.ufl.edu/2024/01/12/how-to-improve-your-critical-thinking/

4. What is critical thinking? - Student Academic Success - Monash University, accessed January 15, 2025, https://www.monash.edu/student-academic-success/enhance-your-thinking/critical-thinking/what-is-critical-thinking

5. How to think critically | A guide to creative and critical thinking - FutureLearn, accessed January 15, 2025, https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/how-to-think-critically

6. What can be done about dumb people : r/AskALiberal - Reddit, accessed January 15, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskALiberal/comments/ti0s17/what_can_be_done_about_dumb_people/

7. Smart Society, Stupid People - AIER, accessed January 15, 2025, https://aier.org/article/smart-society-stupid-people/


bottom of page