Episode #6: The importance of critical thinking for flourishing in an age of technology

In this epsiode we talked to Dr Tom Chatfield. He is a British author, philosopher of technology, and educator. He is interested in improving our understanding of digital technology and its uses in policy, education and engagement. He’s particularly interested in the teaching and practice of critical thinking skills, and has worked with schools, universities and companies around their development, as well as creating award-winning online courses for both academic institutions and businesses.

Key conversation points were:

• • Our relationship with technology and how this impacts our flourishing
  • How to reduce technology blurring the lines between work and leisure
  • How to use technology well, rather than being used by technology
  • Attention: what it is; its importance for living a good life; and the dangers of monetizing attention
  • The importance of collaboration and humility as virtues for thinking and living well
  • The importance of critical thinking skills for leading flourishing lives - in particular, avoiding coercion, reaching effective collaborative decisions, and identifying misinformation and disinformation