Jon Mallia offers free workshops on critical thinking

Have you ever watched an interview with a politician and found yourself getting frustrated by their answers – or non-answers – but unable to articulate exactly why?

The makers of Il-Każin, the debate show fronted by Jon Mallia and Mark Laurence Zammit, are aiming to give people the tools to recognise with free monthly critical thinking workshops hosted at Knights College, in Mrieħel.

Critical thinking is the process of actively analysing, evaluating and synthesising information to guide belief and action, rather than accepting information at face value. It involves using logic and reason to identify biases, question assumptions and make informed, objective judgements.

Speaking ahead of the fourth workshop to be held next Thursday, April 16, Mallia said the classes were part of Il-Każin’s mission to share everything he and his team had learned since coming onto the scene.

“We want everyone to know our methods and how to use them. We don’t consider ourselves to be geniuses but we have knowledge that people can apply to become more critical about what they’re hearing,” he said.

In a world facing information overload, Mallia said, critical thinking was more important than ever.

“It’s easy for all this information to tire you out. As a result, you might be persuaded not by who has the best logic, reasoning or evidence, but by those who are the most charismatic, good-looking or can throw the most money at their content. Critical thinking allows you to better identify what is correct and what is incorrect,” he said.

Challenge

During the workshop, Mallia told attendees he had grown up trying to understand and challenge narratives, recalling how his grandmother was an intelligent woman but whose views were influenced by party media.

Mallia emphasised that, without specific information, it was not possible to be critical of a proposal or claim, using video clips from his interviews with Opposition Leader Alex Borg and Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Ian Borg to demonstrate how politicians attempted to dodge requests for specificity.

He added that critical thinking skills could also be applied to one’s personal and professional life.

As part of a collaboration with Times of Malta, Il-Każin now airs monthly, hosted by Mallia and Times of Malta assistant editor Mark Laurence Zammit on a rotating basis. 

The show is held in front of a live audience and broadcast on Times of Malta’s website and on YouTube.

The next critical thinking workshop will be held on April 16. Those interested in attending are invited to join the waiting list.