Quiz Entry - updated: 2026.07.14
Critical thinking is partly defined by what it stands against. What are some of the things it opposes?
Dogmatism, populism, fundamentalism, ethnocentrism/nationalism/racism, pseudo-science and superstition, hidden interests, and plain convenience.
You can characterise critical thinking by its adversaries — the stances that block or reject reasoned inquiry:
| Opponent | What it does |
|---|---|
| Dogmatism | Legitimises beliefs from unquestioned "basic truths"; won't develop or accept alternatives |
| Populism | Gives up the claim to rationality — or openly attacks it |
| Fundamentalism | Puts thought-bans and unquestionable truths at the centre of its worldview |
| Ethnocentrism / nationalism / racism | Assigns higher worth to "one's own" thinking |
| Pseudo-science / superstition | Aggressively presents itself as scientific when it isn't |
| Hidden interests | Blends scientific principles with private/particular interests |
| Convenience (Bequemlichkeit) | Adopting a ready-made position because building your own is more effort |
Tip: The last one — sheer convenience — is the most universal. Most failures of critical thinking aren't ideology; they're the path of least resistance.