Jim Lett

Jim Lett’s “Guide to Critical Thinking” is an invaluable tool in our crazy, sensationalistic, and “faith based” society. The core of his critical analysis is coined in an acronym – “FiLCHeRS.” When evaluating an issue we need to take into account the falsifiability, logic comprehension, honesty and its reproducibility. It is an easy way to evaluate almost anything from a book or newspaper article to a statement made by crazy Uncle Harry.

A good critical thinker must have the ability to stand back (uninvolved) and evaluate an issue. We can think of it as slowly pealing away the skin of an apple and then cutting it into sections. I wish I had read his guide at the beginning of my collage education which, by the way, began a mere 19 years ago. It would have saved me a lot of heartache and money (Tarot Cards, psychics and palm readers are not cheap!)

One of Mr. Lett’s pet peeves is our thirst for sensational mass media – 24 hours a day. The more bizarre the story the more air time it seems to get –“French toast with picture of Jesus being auctioned on EBay!” The most disturbing trend, I believe, is the media to go live during a police pursuit.

Mr. Lett is most of all concerned with our public school system. As he should be. The primary emphasis at the school district I work for is test scores – period. I have high school senior students who test well but are clueless in so many ways:

• Unable to compose a simple story
• Drive a car
• Believe every rumor on the internet
• Lack honestry and steel money from their parents
• Think “Myspace” is the true source of information

Mr. Lett’s guide should be required reading for all high school students, newly naturalized citizens, ELL students, teachers, professors, and parents.