Reflecting on the state of the nation, many people might wonder “What were they thinking!?” regarding those who have brought us to this point. The simple fact is that they were not thinking. Americans, in general, are no longer thinking critically.
People are finally waking up to this realization as the political, economic, and cultural state of America has gotten worse over the years. Part of this is because there has been a decline in critical thinking skills, which are used to form non-biased judgments after collecting much evidence and analyzing information. Instead of questioning and challenging, we have become complacent in what we are told without any pushback.
Two areas that have contributed to the decline in critical thinking skills are education and the internet.
It is no secret that the education system in America is declining. This has clearly affected our critical thinking skills. Achieving a good letter grade has become the goal of academics, especially since standardized tests are a major determinant in which colleges a person can attend and the scholarships they can obtain.
Learning facts, formulas, tables, etc. is important because, no matter the subject, there is a general amount of knowledge that a person needs to know to be a functioning member of society. However, the things we memorize fade over time. Students can retain knowledge up to a certain point but then it is quickly forgotten when it is no longer necessary.
Standardized tests leave little room for critical thinking, which is necessary for navigating life outside of an academic setting. Failure to teach critical thinking in school has led to many people not knowing how to handle information, which can be detrimental in an age where anyone can know anything with just a click of a button.
On that note, it should not be surprising to learn that social media is addicting. You can tell by the myriads of people who have their faces stuck in a phone for hours at a time, especially children. Many adults are becoming aware of the term the term iPad Kid, especially as it relates to Generation Alpha (those born from 2010 and onward). While Generation Z grew up during a rapid increase of technology, Gen Alpha practically has the whole internet available without the delay and wait that other generations had to deal with.
While there are multiple concerns about social media overtaking the new generation, for this conversation, we are focusing on how being chronically online is depleting our skills to think critically. Social media is inherently addicting because of its entertainment value, leading to countless people being transfixed on their phones for hours at a time. Media platforms have created algorithms that tailor one’s experience uniquely to the individual. Even though it creates an enjoyable atmosphere, people are not aware of the limited perspective they are confined to, which can be dangerous as it relates to hot-button issues in our culture.
The phrase “history is written by the victors” is not inherently true as there are multiple historical perspectives, but the one that yells the loudest will most likely be heard and remembered. The same can be said for what people hear on the internet. Only one point of view is normally presented, and it takes effort to learn more about it. Important news about culture, the economy, politics, and world affairs are mainly explained from a biased point of view when presented on social media.
More than likely, an individual will only see one post that aligns with their beliefs, not aware that the creator possibly could have removed crucial information regarding the subject to fit their bias. They are more likely to believe what they are told and not question it, not even looking into the story more or researching different perspectives. This has resulted in people automatically accepting what they hear as true and spreading it to others, leading to a lot of miscommunications.
It is smart to analyze whatever information we learn. Blindly following what others say shows that we have been programmed to absorb information without thinking about it.
The absence of critical thinking hinders us from making our own judgments. In this time of political and cultural confusion, it is important now, more than ever, that we question what we are told and think carefully about how we will go forward. The future of our nation will look better if we take the time to actually process and think.
It is especially important for Christians to be able to think critically during this time, regarding their politics, the economy, culture, and even religion. We should not blindly follow politicians, businessmen, influencers, or even pastors. All these people are still men and women with a sinful nature and can lead people astray, whether they mean to or not.
For those who believe that God will take care of everything choosing not to bother with today’s issues, please remember faith is not an excuse to be uninformed. It might be depressing to hear about our nation’s current state, but it will only get worse if we are not informed and take active measures to help. Galatians 6:10 tells us that we have an opportunity to do good to people. How can we do that while sitting on the sidelines, not engaging with our culture?
Just as you question the media and search for evidence to think critically, look to your Bible to find answers in God’s Word. It’s important to remember that while we might have important religious figures in our life, our ultimate authority is our Lord and His Word. As Proverbs 14:15 says, “The naive believes everything, But the sensible man considers his steps.”
