Humanities: Understanding Society, People and Art in a critical way. Essay Example

step carefully in order to reach the top. Each step holds significance, as it aids in the generation and formulation of knowledge. The process begins with the question of why I should read a particular text, which will be answered through various means and at different levels. These means may include chapters, charts, graphs, pies, pictures, or photographs. As an illustration, the inclusion of a dedication in a book serves a purpose rather than solely increasing its thickness.

Skipping the text or book is not recommended because the author may have included important information. Understanding and utilizing all parts of the book will enhance your reading experience. Just like in a movie, missing the beginning can make it difficult to understand the ending. Practicing critical reading involves managing your time effectively and becoming familiar with the reason, steps, and different sections of the book. Critical reading also allows you to go back and reread confusing sections or information that you want to remember. This active engagement with the text helps you get the most out of it. It can be beneficial to use tools such as a pencil or highlighter while engaging in critical reading to mark important points and their impact on the overall text.

When reading, it is essential to inquire about the author's intention and the content, as well as to analyze the tone and emotions expressed. The use of punctuation marks, word selection, and even articles all have a purpose, which I discovered in my course. When delving into a book, you must begin by taking that initial step or climbing up the ladder of comprehension and then engage in "critical thinking" by

posing numerous why and why not inquiries. Evaluating both potential outcomes is advantageous. Commencing to ponder and articulate thoughts while reading is beneficial. It is important to consider the methods, process, and other factors that facilitate comprehension of the text.

When engaging in critical thinking, you don't simply ignore the purpose; rather, you assess it. Take into consideration the impact of the information and facts on the reader. Analyze how they influence the perspective or arguments presented. Are they meant to entertain or require imaginative thinking? This course taught me to consider how information is presented, whether in chronological order or through the use of seasons or time frames. Such aspects are crucial when constructing my own argument. Additionally, it is important to examine how problems were resolved and how terms or words were defined in subsequent sections.

In critical thinking, using your imagination is essential. It requires thinking outside the box and going beyond the usual. A key aspect of critical thinking involves analyzing the tone of a text and how the writer presents their ideas. By understanding the tone, you can easily recognize the mood and determine if it is serious or sarcastic. Critical thinkers avoid generalizations and overcome prejudice. They don't simply accept what is being said or written; they consider the sources and differentiate between facts and opinions.

It is a fact that something can be verified, while an opinion is open for argument and debate. The writing I present consists of facts and information. Whenever you write, you should always strive to consider it as your masterpiece. There are various forms of writing, but I must say that critical writing poses more of

a challenge. It differs from other forms of literary pieces. A critical essay is informative and focuses on the content rather than the idea. All of your work should be supported by evidence.

Regardless of personal beliefs, it is crucial to focus on provable information, even if it contradicts popular opinions. Critical writing aims to educate and assist audiences in forming their own opinions. I write not for impressing others but to express myself authentically. This course has shown me that there are different forms of criticism that require varied approaches. As mentioned, "If critical reading engages us with language, critical writing shares that engagement with others." Its purpose is not to criticize but inform. Criticism can be a means of defense and expression, while critical writing revolves around presenting facts. Initially, this class introduces theories, concepts, ideas, and arguments regarding art, literature, film or music. It has taught me how to interpret deeper meanings using simpler terms and encouraged me to seek supporting evidence instead of settling for one idea. Stepping outside my comfort zone is one of the most valuable lessons I have learned from this experience since being complacent with my habits does not guarantee contentment or success. Studying humanities has broadened my understanding of literary works and human behavior.

Studying humanities enhances my understanding of communication, empathy, and perspective. It allows me to comprehend diverse interpretations of life and the influence of the past on the present and future. Familiarity with historical events helps me better understand current situations. For example, when analyzing Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, people from different backgrounds interpret it differently based on their cultural norms.

Moreover, studying humanities enables

me to adopt a multidimensional viewpoint and appreciate various cultures while still valuing my own. This knowledge extends beyond the classroom as it forms a foundation for application in real-world scenarios.

In our society where judgmental behavior and argumentation prevail without well-formed ideas being presented, integrating principles, concepts, and formulas from humanities into our daily lives becomes vital. This understanding fosters empathy and awareness towards others' emotions.

Thinking critically is a vital skill that can be applied in daily life when engaging with diverse individuals. In the present worldwide economic situation, amidst a financial crisis, we consistently receive information and news through media channels. It is crucial to evaluate these occurrences critically to empower ourselves. As society becomes increasingly interconnected on a global scale, effective communication skills are indispensable for all individuals. The development of such abilities is an ongoing undertaking that begins with fundamental knowledge and progresses through real-life experiences. Sadly, for many people, humanities often gets confined to merely reading literature and responding to it.

Once you enter the class, you will gradually realize that it is more about contemplating the meaning of life than just reading. "It is evident that studying humanities is not merely a college course, but a continuous process and practice in life." The immediate impact of studying humanities may not be apparent, but the benefit of the class is that you will learn how to bring about change. By critically analyzing your surroundings, you begin to engage in a positive manner. Here are a few commitments I have made after completing the course: (1) I will self-reflect more honestly. (2) I will be mindful of my biases and how they can

hurt others. (3) I will understand my values. (4) I should be open to examining and altering my thought patterns. (5) I will start asking appropriate questions and base my judgments on facts. (6) I will differentiate between facts and opinions. (7) I will not allow anyone to manipulate my thinking. We have evaluated various works, read different articles, and engaged in discussions and debates on different topics. However, all of these activities lack significance unless they are connected to the present situation and how they directly affect you. Humanities, like culture, is a way of life.