The Importance of Thinking Critically

One of the skills that stood out to me was critical thinking. The definition from the IDG course states that it is a skill where you are able to critically review evidence, viewpoints, and plans. I like that this is listed as a skill because critical thinking is something we acquire through practice, and I think this is an incredibly important skill to have, especially since AI is becoming more prevalent. So it's easy to fall for misinformation or doctored evidence or videos using AI; it's important to ensure that we ask questions, check the source, and look at different points of view.

Why is this an important skill? First, it helps us to effectively solve problems we face at school, work, or home because we are thinking in a fair-minded fashion, where we are less biased and are able to look at all the pieces of evidence, and this allows us to make logical decisions that are based on fact instead of emotions and biases. A recent example where I had to use my critical thinking skills was when my father told me that Ginger Ale (Canada Dry) had been recalled due to contamination issues, and the first thing I asked was, where do you get this information? He told me ***; well, that doesn't mean anything. The company hasn't issued a statement. I googled it, and one simple question dismantled that lie that had gotten thousands of views and comments. It's important, with the increased usage of AI and new improvements in technology, that we are constantly verifying the validity of claims made online. 

I have two questions: 

1. With the increase in AI usage and fake news spread online, what are some of the biggest challenges you face in thinking critically? 

2. Can you share a time when you relied on your own biases instead of looking at the objective facts and how that either led to bad decision-making?