Stop Thinking? Or Not?

Let’s not stop thinking, or – at least – trying to think.

Although reflection is not a magic bullet, it can give us a better perspective.

And, more importantly, a more empathetic perspective.

Because giving up on thinking can only mean one of two things.

And it does not paint a pretty picture.

This is why our thinking should be open – but built around a foundation.

In short: Keep thinking.

 Keep going!

Thinking does not have a destination, a stopping point, a “Well, we’re finally here.” To cease thinking, as Thomas Aquinas explained, is an act either of despair—“ I can’t go any further”—or of presumption—“ I need not go any further.”* 2 What is needed for the life of thinking is hope: hope of knowing more, understanding more, being more than we currently are. And I think we’ve seen, in the course of this book, the benefits that come to people who have the courage and determination to do the hard work of thinking. We have good cause for hope.

-Alan Jacobs, How To Think