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Introduction
Thinking is a natural human activity that helps us make sense of the world around us. In his essay “Thinking as a Hobby”, William Golding explores the different levels of thinking and argues that most people do not engage in critical thinking. This article will summarize the key points of Golding’s essay and provide tips on how to develop critical thinking skills.
Summary of “Thinking as a Hobby”
In his essay, Golding describes three levels of thinking: grade-three thinking, grade-two thinking, and grade-one thinking. Grade-three thinking is the lowest level of thinking, characterized by the ability to describe things but not understand them. Grade-two thinking involves the ability to understand things but not evaluate them critically. Finally, grade-one thinking involves the ability to think critically and evaluate ideas. Golding argues that most people engage in grade-three and grade-two thinking, but only a few individuals engage in grade-one thinking. He suggests that grade-one thinking is the most important type of thinking because it allows individuals to critically evaluate ideas and make informed decisions. Golding also argues that grade-one thinking is not easy to develop. It requires individuals to challenge their beliefs and be open to new ideas. He suggests that individuals can develop critical thinking skills by reading widely, engaging in debates, and questioning their assumptions.
Tips for Developing Critical Thinking Skills
1. Read Widely: Reading widely exposes individuals to different perspectives and helps them develop critical thinking skills. It allows individuals to evaluate different arguments and form their own opinions. 2. Engage in Debates: Engaging in debates allows individuals to practice critical thinking skills by evaluating arguments and presenting their own ideas. It also helps individuals develop communication skills and learn how to defend their ideas. 3. Question Your Assumptions: Critical thinking requires individuals to question their assumptions and be open to new ideas. Individuals should be willing to challenge their beliefs and consider different perspectives. 4. Evaluate Evidence: Critical thinking involves evaluating evidence and determining its reliability. Individuals should learn how to evaluate sources and determine whether they are credible.
Conclusion
Developing critical thinking skills is an important part of personal and professional development. It allows individuals to evaluate ideas critically and make informed decisions. William Golding’s essay “Thinking as a Hobby” provides valuable insights into the different levels of thinking and the importance of critical thinking. By following the tips outlined in this article, individuals can develop their critical thinking skills and become more effective thinkers.
