Drain Bamage: The Internet vs. Critical Thinking

In general, has the Internet diminished our ability to think critically or are we more informed than previous generations -- or both? 

Overall, I do not believe the Internet has diminished our ability to think critically anymore than I believe that it has provided a reason for us to no longer utilize this ability. Prior to the Internet’s advancements, we critical analysts were forced to research, examine and determine answers to the questions that we were asked and make sense of theories about which we were inquiring.  We went to the library and read books.  We interviewed experts.  We read the newspaper that was delivered to our doorstep daily.  But now, with the aid of the Internet, the answers are made convenient before us, saving us both time and energy. 

Critical thinking involves time. Time spent thinking is lessened by the instant rate of the Internet.  I must agree with Steven Pinker when, in his article Mind Over Mass Media, he speaks of technological distractions (i.e. text messages, ad pop-ups, instant messenger) interfering with critical thinking.  He also makes the point that distractions are not a newly occurring problem.  In order to eliminate them, we must practice self-control by eliminating these distractions or learning to ignore them.

By having knowledge literally at our fingertips, today’s generation has access to information our grandparents never dreamed about.  Indeed we are more informed and therefore, more should be expected of us.  The idea of the Internet diminishing our ability to think critically is not far-fetched.  I do believe critical thinking can be enhanced and developed through practice. 

For the younger generation, which is growing up on computers, cell phones and eBooks as opposed to pencils, paper and pay phones, thinking critically may be hard but is certainly not an inability.  Although I believe computers are educational tools among grade school students, I am concerned that not all educators are teaching these students to survive and operate without them.  Instead of being able to critically analyze a book, students are now able to critically analyze the best way in which to find summaries and information about the book.  Approval of such searches for class is not only taught but highly encouraged, making the collection of the book for reading purposes unnecessary.  In short, the Internet is not diminishing the ability to think critically as it is focusing the analysis in another direction.

Bio: A native of Columbia, SC, RhyanMichele is a Masters degree candidate for Entertainment Business at Full Sail University. This tiny bomb of theatrical energy is determined to seek after, learn about and share entertainment insight as she COLORS OUTSIDE THE LINES: making her creative mark on the theatre entertainment industry.