Being critical: stereotypes, heuristics and bias
The objectives of this lecture were:
• What are these?
To begin this lecture we were given some paper and asked to draw a scientist. A lot of the drawings had the same characteristics: usually a man, wearing glasses and a white coat with crazy hair. Similar to this image here:
This is an example of stereotyping (image from: http://www.electrosensitivity-support.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/scientist.jpg)
A stereotype is a simplified mental picture of an individual or group of people who share certain characteristic or stereotypical qualities. The term has a negative connotation and is seen as undesirable beliefs which need change.
A heuristics approach when solving a problem is to evaluate each step in the progress, searching for satisfactory solutions rather than optimal solutions. It comprises a form of problem solving where the results are determined by experience or intuition instead of by optimization.
Bias is a term used to describe a tendency or preference towards a particular perspective, ideology or result, especially when the tendency interferes with the ability to be impartial, unprejudiced, or objective.
• How do they relate to critical thinking?
You can not be stereotypical or bias when being critical although this can be hard. You must have a heuristic open approach using factual evidence, valued references and logical flow to your structure.
After studying Critical Thinking in the previous year, I was already aware of these definitions and the practice of thinking critically but it was good to have a recap on what is required.
