"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education." – Martin Luther King Jr.
Today I want to provide 10 journal prompts that will assist with critical thinking! In today’s world critical thinking seems to be missing and has not be promoted. Critical thinking is defined as an intellectual process that is disciplined which involves, skillful conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and gathering information by observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication as a guide to belief and action. When we don’t utilize critical thinking the more we are vulnerable to bias.
Top 10 journal prompts
Think about a widely accepted belief in your community or society. What are the underlying assumptions, and how might they be challenged or questioned?
Reflect on a time when your own biases affected your judgment or actions. How did you become aware of this bias, and what did you learn from the experience?
Analyze the sources of news and information you rely on. How do you ensure they are credible, and what steps do you take to seek diverse perspectives?
Describe a moral or ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you approach resolving it, and what principles guided your decision?
Consider how power and privilege manifest in your life and in society. How do these dynamics influence your thoughts and actions?
Reflect on the role of technology in modern society. What are its benefits and drawbacks, and how does it shape human behavior and social interactions?
Think about a recent conflict you experienced or witnessed. How was it resolved, and what alternative approaches could have been taken?
Examine a cultural norm or tradition you follow. What are its origins, and how does it influence your behavior and worldview?
Imagine a significant change in the world 20 years from now (e.g., climate change, political shifts, technological advancements). How might this impact society, and what would be the necessary adaptations?
Critically assess the education system you were part of. What were its strengths and weaknesses, and how did it shape your critical thinking skills?
Final Thoughts
These questions are designed to provoke your mindset and my hope is that these will assist in critical thinking. I often encourage others to be nonpartisan as opposed to playing the blame game. We can agree that we are not universally going to share the same values and beliefs, but when having a conversation it is important to let your mind be open. There is not one person that will be bias free! If so, I would like to meet that person. Everyone please stay safe and much love to you all!