Why did the author say that “grade-one thinkers are few and far in between" in the essay "Thinking as a Hobby"
In the essay "Thinking as a Hobby," the author, William Golding, claims that "grade-one thinkers are few and far between" to emphasize the rarity of individuals who possess profound critical thinking skills. To understand why he made this statement, we need to delve into the essay and analyze the context.
To start, "Thinking as a Hobby" explores the different levels of thinking demonstrated by people as they grow and mature. The author divides these levels into three grades: grade-three thinkers, grade-two thinkers, and grade-one thinkers.
Grade-three thinkers, according to Golding, are the lowest level of thinkers. They tend to adopt opinions and ideas without critically analyzing them. They rely on simple prejudices and dogmas rather than independent thought. These individuals lack the ability to question or challenge their own beliefs.
Grade-two thinkers, on the other hand, possess a higher level of thinking. They begin to develop a reflective mindset and are more open to considering alternative perspectives. They have the capacity to think beyond the surface level. However, they still tend to conform to some established norms and may not fully escape societal influences.
Finally, grade-one thinkers are the rarest and most advanced category. They display exceptional critical thinking skills by questioning everything, including their own beliefs and assumptions. They strive to understand the complexity of the world, embracing uncertainty and challenging conventional wisdom. These individuals possess a relentless curiosity and an insatiable intellectual hunger.
By stating that "grade-one thinkers are few and far between," the author emphasizes the scarcity of individuals who reach this level of intellectual prowess. He suggests that only a small portion of society consistently engages in deep critical thinking.
It is important to note that the author's intention is not to disparage or belittle those who fall in lower thinking grades. Instead, he aims to highlight the importance of fostering and nurturing critical thinking skills to contribute to personal growth and intellectual advancement.
To fully grasp the author's argument, I would recommend reading the essay "Thinking as a Hobby" in its entirety. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of Golding's thoughts on the varying levels of thinking and the rationale behind the statement you mentioned.