In what ways can Philosophy help develop critical thinking, and what benefits, both individually and socially, does this relation represent?

Abstract

Philosophy learning and teaching are valuable tools for cultivating intelligence and training our critical thinking. Thinking requires effort, and many people run away from it, but questioning, acknowledging, and testing previously held assumptions help us develop a wider and clearer understanding of the world around us. It is not just about memorizing concepts, but putting them into practice, by learning how to argue; not to win, but to progress. The most important lesson is to avoid indoctrination, as imposing an ideology or belief prevents true philosophical thinking, which is about pursuing knowledge and truth. In this reflection, I will connect what I have learned about philosophy with how it helps students (including myself) to reason, debate and make smarter decisions in both educational and daily life contexts.