Everyone claims to value critical thinking. But most people only apply it when it confirms what they already believe.
Critical thinking is really just an application of the scientific method. Think about it — you observe/hear an assertion (the hypothesis), you test it logically based on your own observations and experiences, and you analyze the results to determine how much credence you give the assertion. So why does there seem to be such a lack of critical thinking today? The answers lie in how objectively you apply the scientific method.
Let’s come at it from another direction. Why is there so much distrust for science these days? Is it all just propaganda convincing people that scientists are untrustworthy? Unfortunately, there are plenty of historical examples to illustrate how science can be perverted and misused. Throughout the last three decades of the 20th century, the tobacco industry served as a case study for how to abuse public trust in science. Studies were suppressed, falsified, and rigged to produce desired results. The so-called “scientific studies” funded by Philip Morris were structured to look like applications of the scientific method without the objectivity that is so critical. Unfortunately, the twin toxins of money and politics can easily undermine the scientific method, as they seek to “prove” a pre-ordained outcome.
We can be our own worst enemies when it comes to critical thinking. If we cannot objectively consider contradictory facts, testimony, or evidence, then our analysis will be flawed and we may make an incorrect conclusion. If we “read into” the assertion, we may pervert the hypothesis in such a way that it is patently unsupportable. The linchpin of critical thinking is objective listening. You can — and should — be skeptical. But you should also subscribe to the trust but verify mindset that allows you to at least consider input that may not support your position. You should also be willing and even eager to challenge your own conclusions. Some of the strongest science has come from unsuccessfully trying to disprove a hypothesis! Every test yields a data point, and every data point weakens or strengthens the hypothesis.
Be objective, be critical, and most importantly, listen! Critical thinking isn’t just a personal virtue — it’s your responsibility as a leader.