Desensitizing the Human Condition

Week Nine

Reflecting upon an excerpt from The Coddling of The American Mind by Greg Lukianoof and Johathan Haidt, they described society as becoming increasingly hypersensitive and lacking in critical thinking skills. They assess that the overprotected and controlled environments children are developing in are depleting the coping mechanisms of the healthy reasoning required to adapt and thrive in today's world. Also presented is the absorbent time individuals spend on the internet, which compromises many real world experiences. With the rise of people hiding behind avatars and the increase in hate crimes, school shootings, teen anxiety, depression, and suicide; these are legitimate concerns that need to be addressed.

Six insightful suggestions which can be used to condition children to become well adapted adults were presented. Allowing children to play outside helps students develop common sense, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills. LetGrow.org is a website dedicated to creating healthy environments that cater to a child's cognitive development. Teaching children Cognitive-behavioral techniques can increase mindfulness and help alleviate anxiety and depression by providing mental coping mechanisms. By teaching children to accept differences in individuals, there is potential to breed tolerance and develop intellectual humility. Schools can facilitate students' success in developing self-esteem, confidence, and interpersonal skills by allowing recess time, having a no-device policy during school hours; and hosting debate, maker, social, or art clubs. Social activities aim to build healthy critical thinking skills and establish a sense of confidence, tolerance, and vested community in school culture. To learn more about cultivating intellectual virtues in the learning environment visit https://intellectualvirtues.org/what-are-intellectual-virtues/.