# Thinking as an Afterthought By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2025-02-18 It seems that people are engaging in less thinking. In fact, one might argue that there is very little critical thought within our society. This is concerning. Reflection is one of the most powerful tools in the human arsenal. Thinking is humanity’s superpower. There are two meanings to the idea of thinking as an afterthought. The first meaning implies that thinking is not the primary activity in which humans engage. People are doing more than they are pondering. In this context, thinking has become an afterthought, or a subsequent, incidental activity. The second meaning suggests that thinking should also follow thinking. In this sense, one should think, and then think again. The first concept can be a liability to human development. The second holds the potential for greater solidarity and coherent action. Thinking as an afterthought, in its positive interpretation, is not intended to imply that people should think exclusively. Action is essential. Thinking can never replace action. It simply conveys that action based on rigorous thinking tends to be more strategic than action taken without it. Much of what surrounds us makes it challenging to think. We are bombarded by nearly constant sensory stimulation and ubiquitous forms of personal entertainment. Distractions are everywhere. Generative AI chatbots have also become an adjunct to thinking, if not a substitute. If one is to think, one will need to take deliberate steps to do so. The surrounding environment is increasingly less conducive to thought. Unless one recognizes the need for thinking, it likely won’t occur. Think. And then, think again. Training oneself to do so can form the basis of a sustainable competency that endures across the shifting political and technological landscape. #### Related Items [[Thinking]] [[Reflection]] [[Action]] [[Distractions]] [[Development]]