Encouraging critical thinking in students isn’t as simple as just telling them to do so. It’s akin to instructing someone to be cool; it’s not a lesson that can be easily imparted. Educators should foster critical thinking subtly, utilizing thought-provoking inquiries, expecting more than surface-level responses, and welcoming diverse perspectives. This approach is what many outside the education sector refer to as “engaging in meaningful discussions.”
There are countless instances of critical thinking all around us, waiting to be recognized. Consider the well-known advice to “be true to yourself,” attributed to Shakespeare. It’s a phrase so commonly used that it has become somewhat of a cliché, yet it resonates with an undeniable truth. However, many who quote this advice often overlook its deeper implications.
To truly engage in critical thinking—though I find the term somewhat unappealing—we must dissect such platitudes. We should not merely accept the literal interpretation; we need to explore beyond the obvious. This particular line is spoken by Polonius, the father of Laertes and Ophelia in Hamlet, as he imparts wisdom to his son leaving for France.
If we were to strip this advice of its historical context, our first instinct would be to inquire about the speaker. It’s crucial to consider who is offering advice—some individuals are wise and trustworthy, while others are, unfortunately, easily misled. A detached reading of Polonius’s words might suggest that he is among the latter. However, a complete analysis of Hamlet reveals that Polonius, despite his intentions, is actually quite foolish. Hamlet himself derisively labels him a “tedious old fool.” While Polonius’s sayings may sound appealing, when we attach them to the character, they lose their weight. It’s not out of the question for a director to have Laertes roll his eyes at his father’s counsel. Shakespeare employs Polonius to mock conventional wisdom and, more profoundly, to challenge the very concept of identity.
For prospective college students, critically examining such “wise” advice is vital for a couple of reasons. First, high-achieving students—those who earn top grades, take numerous AP classes, and excel on standardized tests—often find themselves struggling with critical thinking. They may understand the context and language of Polonius’s advice but fail to approach it with the necessary skepticism. Conversely, those who can see beyond the surface of such platitudes tend to be the most appealing candidates to colleges.
Second, the counsel to “be yourself” is frequently echoed in the college application process, making Polonius an unofficial figurehead for aspiring students. College representatives encourage applicants to present their authentic selves rather than fabricate stories or mold themselves into what they believe the institutions desire. However, being genuine doesn’t equate to revealing everything; applications should not serve as confessions. Instead, they offer students a chance to highlight their most compelling attributes, share meaningful experiences, and analyze them thoughtfully and positively. Students who engage deeply with their narratives—reflecting on their experiences, talents, and aspirations—often emerge from the application process more self-aware and empowered.
Polonius’s advice also underscores the significant role parents play in nurturing their children’s critical thinking abilities. The development of these skills can sometimes be misconstrued as mere argumentative behavior, focusing too heavily on the “critical” aspect rather than the “thinking.” Rather than dismissing or disregarding their children’s questions and debates, parents should encourage them. While discussions may begin with emotional outbursts, transforming these into constructive dialogues allows both parties to align their intellect and emotions, leading to mutually beneficial resolutions.
Students who embark on this journey—not merely by adhering to the notion of being “true” to themselves, but by harnessing their intellect to refine their self-presentation—will ultimately have much to be proud of.
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Summary:
The journey toward effective critical thinking goes beyond surface-level understanding. By analyzing advice, such as Polonius’s “be true to yourself,” students can develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and critical engagement, which is essential for college applications. Parents play a crucial role in fostering these skills by encouraging thoughtful discussions rather than dismissing inquiries. Ultimately, students who cultivate their critical thinking and self-presentation will find greater success in their college endeavors.