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This week's helpful idea:


There is a major flaw in teaching kids how to "debate:" they learn to argue for an arbitrary side of an issue. This is the opposite of rationality (which is about figuring out what's true, not trying to prove that one perspective is right). 

My proposed alternative: an "investigation" instead of a "debate." A thorny/hotly-contested topic is chosen. Teams have two weeks to try to figure out the truth. Each team presents what they think is true about the topic and why they think it's true. They are judged on the quality of evidence and argument.

Do we want children to learn to be persuaders or truth-seekers/finders? The latter is, in my view, far more useful for society than the former. 


This week's question for you:

What is one really interesting thing you've learned recently that you can briefly explain to others in the comments?

You can read other people's answers or join the ongoing discussion about this question on Twitter or Facebook


Here is the newest Clearer Thinking podcast episode for you:

Math as a perspective on life (with Marcus du Sautoy)


Lastly, here's an essay that I recently put up on my website that you may find valuable: 

Many global challenges arise due to collective action problems or incentive misalignment 


Until next week!

Spencer Greenberg


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