About Black Statistics
Basically, we created the Black Statistics website to provide a simple service, access to “bite-sized” facts about the black population in the United States, and around the world. In a world of social media created images and news media driven perceptions, we’ve seen a need for facts, data, and statistics delivered in a way that is consumable with comparable ease. This website is also a companion to the Youtube Channel Black Statistics. This website will feature content from that channel. There is also curated content from other sources. You’ll find a mix of this content on the home page.
A wise man once said that it isn’t so much about what people know that is the problem. Most often, the problem is those things that they think they know… that simply aren’t true.
That said, we present information on this channel in a more neutral form. This will allow the viewer to form their own opinions about the facts. That includes their affect on black culture. Our people deserve better than simply being told what to think.
Learning how to think will get us much much further.
Our thinking should be shaped, at least in part, by facts, data, and statistics.
Critical Thinking About Black Statistics is Important
Basically, critical thinking is nothing short of being intellectually disciplined (and active) in how process information. The black community is literally littered with individuals and organizations telling us what we should think. Unfortunately, there are far fewer of them teaching us how to think. Critical thinking is more important now than ever.
Thinking critically involves skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating the information that we gather. We gather that information from a plethora of sources. It may come from, or be generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communications. And, it serves as a guide to our beliefs and actions.
7 Ways to Think More Critically
We must learn to use facts, data, and statistics to better put that information to use and to keep it in the proper context. Critical thinking is key in doing that. Therefore, here are seven ways to think more critically.
Ask Basic Questions
A question is a sentence that seeks an answer for information collection, tests, and research. Right questions produce accurate responses. They also aid in collecting actionable quantitative and qualitative data. Questions are either basic or complex. A basic question requires only a simple answer. We can have a tendency to get lost in the muck and mire. More often than not, it helps to keep things simple.
Question Basic Assumptions
Basic assumptions are described as those that designate that which, fundamentally, the individual must assume in order to be part of a group. Basic assumptions come into play at the unconscious, perception, and affective levels. We have to be mindful of the foundations upon which we construct our thoughts. Poor assumptions are like sand. A wise person builds upon solid rock.
Be Mindful of Your Mental Processes
Our mental processes encompass all the things that our human minds can do naturally. Common mental processes include memory, emotion, perception, imagination, thinking and reasoning. Since our minds are always active, these mental processes are continuously relevant. They are always affecting how we act or react to the events of our daily lives.
Try Reversing Things
Essentially, reversing things is the same as imagining yourself in the situation or circumstances of another person. This allows you to better understand or empathize with their perspective. You will understand the reasons behind their opinions. And, it clarifies their point of view. Overall, it helps to keep us from being quick to judge someone for their actions. We will all benefit from “reversing things” and trying to see them in a different light.
Evaluate the Existing Evidence
Evidence-based conclusions use of facts, data, and statistics in a systematic and transparent way to support conclusions. We answer questions that matter in a valid, efficient, and accessible manner. As mentioned earlier, it’s not wise to build on sand. So, we have to evaluate existing “evidence” to make sure that it is solid. If not, the new conclusions that we arrive at will eventually fall apart.
Remember to Think for Yourself
Thinking for yourself means holding well thought out opinions. Your opinions come from a position of thorough investigation and thoughtful analysis. It means choosing to not compromise the facts for the sake of consensus or fitting in. A lot of people think that being part of the “community” is the most important thing. So, they go along to get along. In truth, that is doing the community a disservice. The community benefits from the power of the thoughts of individuals. It doesn’t help if everyone thinks the same way, or pretends to, just to fit in.
No One ALWAYS Thinks Critically
Remember, our minds are always working, even when we sleep. That being the case, there is no way that we can be in complete control of our thoughts all of the time. We are human. We get tired. Sometimes, we simply just don’t pay attention. There are any number of reasons that we slip out of thinking critically. Keep that in mind when you think about others as well. No matter how credible they usually are, you have to evaluate everything they say on its own merit.
The Reason for Black Statistics
Basically, we created the Black Statistics website for the above reasons. You need the facts to think critically. We’ll provide access to those “bite-sized” facts about the black population and you can arrive at your own conclusions. Social media will continue to create negative imagery. News media will continue to drive negative perceptions. And, we’ll continue to give you facts, data, and statistics that will help you think critically about all of it. Don’t forget to check out our Youtube Channel Black Statistics and be sure to like, comment, and share while you’re there.
