As our world becomes more reliant on algorithms to present us with information, learning to evaluate information through inquiry is the only way to arrive at the truth. Too often, people receive information that supports their viewpoint and fail to actively seek out differing viewpoints that will enable them to evaluate information. Too many people turn off the news that does not support their ideology or dogma. This model is polarizing Canada and the world.
Around the globe we are seeing people reject facts and replace them with wishful thinking. In the U.S., for example, people who did not like the 2020 election outcome simply declared it rigged. Closer to home, people who want COVID to be over simply say that it is. Those who are inconvenienced by climate change can eliminate such inconvenience by rejecting the facts. CFIC is committed to helping people evaluate information through easy-to-understand resources like Is it Science? And we regularly bring you useful information about how to fact check.
CFIC’s podcasts, speaker events, discussion groups, and conferences provide opportunities for our members and the general public to be exposed to diverse viewpoints. CFIC encourages people to go beyond the rhetoric and invective, to engage with the underlying facts and ideas. While we hold to our principles, we will strive to disagree without being disagreeable.
Inquiry is the key to reducing hostility and polarization. It will assist us to evaluate information, create more interesting conversations, and, most importantly, foster understanding of important topics.
Inquiry… It’s in our name.