Education for Life: Teaching How to Think, Not What to Think
In a world where information is always just a click away, what does it truly mean to be educated? Many of us remember childhood classrooms focused on memorizing facts, acing tests, and following instructions. But step into the challenges of adult life, and the reality often proves more complex. The skills necessary to thrive—critical thinking, creativity, and an appreciation for different perspectives—are sometimes sidelined in favor of rote learning. Rabbi Simon Jacobson encourages us to reconsider the very foundation of education: moving from teaching what to think, to nurturing the art of how to think.
Why Learning How to Think Matters
Imagine a classroom where disagreement isn’t feared but embraced, where students are taught to challenge ideas, not just accept them. Rabbi Jacobson explains that genuine learning is about questioning, exploring, and even welcoming dissent. Some of the most eye-opening moments happen when we begin to probe beneath the surface of our assumptions, much like the wisdom from the Baal Shem Tov: “For every question I have an answer, and for every answer I have another question.” Life is a continuous journey of discovery, not a fixed set of conclusions.
When we cultivate this mindset, we become more adaptable and open. This ability to think critically is especially relevant today, with polarized debates in media, politics, and even within families. It’s easy to cling to what we know; it takes strength and humility to genuinely consider another point of view.
Making it Real: How to Cultivate Thinking Skills
Moving from memorization to true understanding begins with everyday choices. Here are some ways to apply Rabbi Jacobson’s wisdom:
- Invite challenges. Deliberately seek out opinions different from your own. If you’re having a discussion with friends, ask for opposing viewpoints and practice listening without responding defensively.
- Reflect on your thinking process. Keep a journal where you jot down why you hold particular beliefs and what might change your mind. Asking yourself, “What would it take for me to see this differently?” opens doors to growth.
- Distinguish ideas from identity. Remember that your ideas are not who you are. You have the freedom to change your perspective without feeling like you lose a part of yourself.
- Model humility and curiosity. Try to summarize someone else’s argument—even one you disagree with—better than they can. This builds empathy and leads to genuine understanding.
- Encourage children to question. Instead of giving answers, encourage questions. Nurture their innate wonder. When a child asks “why”, resist the urge to reply with “because that’s how it is.” Instead, say, “what do you think?” and open the door to discovery.
Reimagining Education: From Utility to Meaning
The traditional approach to education, influenced by historical needs for efficient workers, often prioritizes practical skills over creativity and deeper meaning. Rabbi Jacobson suggests a seismic shift: teaching not just for material success but to nurture moral, ethical, and spiritual depth as well. Every child has the capacity to make a difference, not just a living.
By supporting curiosity, humility, and the courage to question, we lay a foundation for creativity, resilience, and moral clarity—both for ourselves and future generations. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or lifelong learner, it’s never too late to shift from transmitting knowledge to inspiring lifelong learning.
Ready to go deeper? Watch the full class here: Education: How to Think, Not What to Think
