8 Ways to Learn to Think for Yourself in a Conformist Society

[Manuel Tavares]

8 Ways to Learn to Think for Yourself in a Conformist Society
Janey Davies, B.A. (Hons)
https://rayviolet.blogspot.com/2022/06/8-ways-to-learn-to-think-for-yourself.html

We all like to think that we are individuals, capable of free will and independent thought. However, the fact is humans inhabit groups, and there’s an evolutionary reason for this. Our early ancestors formed groups as a matter of survival. In modern society the groups we join or naturally inhabit inform others of our identity.

However, there’s a downside to group membership. Once we join a group we are expected to behave in a certain way. Acceptance or membership into a group requires conforming to the group’s ideals. These groups form the basis of our conformist society. And there is no doubt that it is hard to think for yourself in a conformist society.

How to Think for Yourself in a Conformist Society

Thinking for yourself takes a conscious effort. You have to be continually on guard for misinformation, hidden agendas, or even your own biases. Being mentally prepared to challenge your group’s views and your own takes strength and confidence. Here are just a few ways you can learn how to think for yourself.

1. Be open-minded

Being open-minded doesn’t mean accepting someone’s point of view without question. It means being open to the possibility of different ideas and views. No one is asking or telling you to change your stance on a particular subject. However, seeing the issue from someone else’s perspective sheds new light on the situation.+++
https://rayviolet.blogspot.com/2022/06/8-ways-to-learn-to-think-for-yourself.html