Thinking Skills Part 7

Practice objectivity

Whether we admit it or not, we all have some kind of bias. It would be difficult to function without it. We tend to categorize and stereotype things, people, experiences, ideas and other aspects of life, as a kind of mental “shorthand”. Bias occurs when we over-generalize. This is useful to some degree — you get burned by a hot stove, so you become wary of stoves in general, hot or cold. Carried to an extreme, however, it can seriously hinder objectivity.

Another obstacle to objectivity is the natural tendency to self interest. Of course you’re going to be more likely to see things from your own point of view. Yet that becomes a problem when you let the perception of what’s in your best interest prevent you from looking at other options that might be even more desirable.

Objectivity means looking at a situation without taking sides or making assumptions. Learning to be objective can help you to make better decisions, to see more possibilities, to benefit from seeing other points of view. In the long run, objectivity is always in your best interest, because it gives you more options and greater understanding.

To be objective, you must first become aware of your assumptions and prejudices, and of the things that are important to you. Then you must step outside of these influences, as if you were another person. Ask yourself how you would feel if you were not you. Play the “devil’s advocate” with yourself. Imagine what it would be like to hold an opposing point of view. How would you justify your opinion?

Objectivity does not mean giving in to someone else’s opinion. Objectivity is simply the ability to see both sides, clearly and without the distorting influence of your own prejudices. It sharpens the mind, and, ironically, helps you to better understand and project your own point of view.
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