OP-ED: Why Canada needs critical thinking in its schools

Dotan Russo writes, "It is time we make critical thinking a central pillar of the Canadian school curriculum."

Source: Wikimedia Commons

By Dotan Rousso

Canada prides itself on being one of the world’s most educated societies. Our literacy rates are high, our universities are respected, and our classrooms emphasize inclusion and equality. Yet beneath this achievement lies a troubling gap: Canadians often lack the tools and practice of true critical thinking. In an age of disinformation, propaganda, and artificial intelligence, this gap leaves both individuals and society vulnerable. It is time we make critical thinking a central pillar of the Canadian school curriculum.

One reason for this shortfall lies in our cultural habits. Canada is a society built on politeness, compromise, and avoiding confrontation. These values foster social harmony, but they come at a cost. Questioning authority or challenging popular opinion is often seen as rude, disruptive, or “un-Canadian.” Political correctness, while valuable in curbing harmful speech, can inadvertently discourage open debate. As a result, young Canadians grow up equating politeness with silence, and consensus with truth. This cultural instinct to “not rock the boat” undermines the very practice of testing ideas, weighing evidence, and asking uncomfortable questions—skills at the heart of critical thinking.

Another factor is the way education itself has traditionally been framed. Schools often reward memorization, compliance, and the ability to give the “right” answer rather than the thoughtful one. Students are drilled in information but not in inquiry. They can recite historical dates but may not be asked to consider why one narrative of history dominates another. They can solve math problems but are rarely encouraged to question how data can be framed to mislead. Without space to engage in critical questioning, graduates enter adulthood well-informed but ill-equipped to navigate a world where information is increasingly weaponized.

The stakes could not be higher. In today’s digital environment, fake news spreads faster than fact. Sophisticated propaganda exploits emotional triggers. Algorithms amplify outrage and reinforce echo chambers. Artificial intelligence can generate persuasive but entirely fabricated content. Citizens who cannot discern bias, evaluate evidence, or interrogate sources risk being manipulated—whether in politics, consumer choices, or even matters of health and science.

Critical thinking is not only a personal defense mechanism; it is a civic necessity. A healthy democracy depends on voters who can parse competing claims and hold leaders accountable. An innovative economy requires workers who can solve novel problems rather than follow instructions. A diverse society like Canada’s thrives when its citizens can debate respectfully, listen deeply, and reach conclusions based on reason rather than rhetoric.

Adding critical thinking to the school curriculum is not about teaching cynicism or endless skepticism. It is about cultivating habits of curiosity, courage, and discernment. Students should be encouraged to ask: What is the evidence? Whose interests are being served? What assumptions lie beneath this claim? How might another perspective alter my view? These are not just academic exercises—they are survival skills for modern life.

Canada cannot afford to leave critical thinking as an optional skill learned by chance. It must be taught, practiced, and valued alongside literacy and numeracy. If we want future generations to navigate a complex world with integrity and resilience, then critical thinking is not a luxury. It is a necessity.