Out of Africa–On Common Sense and Critical Thinking

IMG_4815Over the next few weeks, I will continue to post a few lingering thoughts from my recent trip to Mozambique, Africa. This post is on common sense and critical thinking.

Critical thinking and common sense (as I know it) is not inherent to the people here, and that has many, many repercussions. Not a lot of forward planning. No real sense of urgency. They learn one way, and there’s not much room for thinking beyond that, maybe because they have not been encouraged, allowed, or educated to do so.

Decision making is highly centralized, and many have conditioned not to “colour outside the lines.” I have run into this issue over and over again. It seems to be all about living today and in this moment, which has its pros and cons.

But is it really that much of a surprise? How can you think about tomorrow, when you are struggling just to make it through today?

1 thought on “Out of Africa–On Common Sense and Critical Thinking

  1. From as far back as I can remember, I have always admired the strength of Afrikkans.. They endure hardships many of us will never experience yet deep inside lies a song, a smile on their face, hope in their heart.. Such strong, wonderful people.

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