Critically Evaluating Information

Information is everywhere.

• We're constantly evaluating information. For example, it helps us decide:
  • which college to attend
  • which movie to watch
  • who to vote for
• We make choices based on:
  • our knowledge
  • the advice of trusted individuals
  • our previous experiences
• An informed decision can be the difference between
  • choosing a winning strategy and losing everything
  • Part of making these decisions well is learning to critically evaluate information

Consider this quotation from the book, What the Bleep Do We Know?

      A university professor visited Zen master Nan-in to inquire
 about Zen. But instead of listening to the master, the scholar kept
 going on and on about his own ideas.
      After listening for some time, Nan-in served tea. He poured
 his visitor's cup full, and then kept on pouring. The tea flowed over
 the sides of the cup, filled the saucer, spilled onto the man's pants
 and onto the floor.
      "Don't you see that the cup is full?" the professor exploded.
 "You can't get any more in!"
      "Just so," replied Nan-in calmly.
"And like this cup, you are full of your own ideas and opinions. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?"

• Just like the professor was surprised by Nan-in's actions, you may be surprised by what you discover when you take the time and energy to critically evaluate information.
• In the end, it's your decision. Make it a thoughtful one.

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