5 Ways to Develop Independent Thought

Ferre · 07-23-2007, 12:23 PM

ewomack · 07-24-2007, 06:44 AM

Interesting article, but "Disconnect from sources of conventional thinking" is bad advice. Better advice would be "think differently about conventional thinking" or "Don't take conventional thinking at face value." As the start of the article says, the student's independent thought was flubbed by the class. So it went nowhere. Being completely unconnected with what people are thinking puts one at a disadvantage because people won't identify with you. Then they'll just roll their eyes everytime you open your mouth. Not very helpful. True independent thinking engages the status quo but challenges it in a way that makes it look upon and question itself.

StrongInTheArm · 07-24-2007, 07:52 AM

I think Ed has put his finger on the problem with that article. But I would say the ideas expressed there have a place in generating new thoughts or as just a mental exercise to free your mind. But as Ed implied what is the good of an idea if you cannot bring it into the real world? That is the real test of this method of thinking.

De Bono has a interesting new method to generate free thinking ideas too, but more problem centred. Can't remember what its called though, sorry.

**G10** · 07-24-2007, 07:58 AM

Ed is right there, totally agree dude.

Also, a hi dose of ketamine will send your body into complete relaxation and cause a hallucinative effect that will allow you to have a thought process all of your own also

**John Scott** · 07-27-2007, 06:01 AM

Quote:

5. Practice disbelief

I think that's the most important. Just assume that everybody is a liar and has ulterior motives. In other words, be a critical thinker.

StrongInTheArm · 07-27-2007, 06:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by John Scott

I think that's the most important. Just assume that everybody is a liar and has ulterior motives. In other words, be a critical thinker.

And what if you are too good at critical thinking. You could end up being sceptical about everything. Might you not miss out on a few good ideas?

Should there not be a fine balance?

**John Scott** · 07-27-2007, 06:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StrongInTheArm

And what if you are too good at critical thinking. You could end up being sceptical about everything. Might you not miss out on a few good ideas?

Should there not be a fine balance?

No, you liar.

(J/K)

StrongInTheArm · 07-27-2007, 06:16 AM

I think that is a finely balanced critical joke.