General principles
Evolution of thinking
The following meta analysis is based on concepts from philosophy of language and Gilbert Ryle's philosophy of mind, and my own observations.
Every solution has a problem
A fact or an assertion can be right or wrong - while an approach to a problem is only better or worse than others - depending on whether there are more effective concepts and techniques available.
Every theory, every political concept fits a particular problem, a theoretical question or a cultural problem at least partially. The same is, of course, true for working methods and products.
That's why, before discarding an approach, it is therefore helpful to understand what it can and cannot do.
Let me put it this way: every solution fits a problem - but not necessarily the problem it aimed to or claims to solve.
By uncovering gaps in already developed methods, we drive conscious evolution of methods, theories and technologies.
Critical Analysis -> Evolution of methods
Any conscious progress requires critical analysis. Conscious evolution is nothing other than solving an identified problem. Critical analysis examines the functionality of a method or theory in light of its context (such as its goals).
Critical Analysis
Interest by trigger
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Observation of a praxis
Benefits of the praxis
vs.
Intentions behind the praxis
Idea
Final Solution
required ressources
Expected benefits
vs.
Adjustment / Adaption
Gaps & deficits
Solution finding
Interest by trigger
Observation of a praxis
Benefits of the praxis
vs.
Intentions behind the praxis
Idea
Final Solution
required ressources
Expected benefits
vs.
Adjustment / Adaption
Gaps & deficits
Spontaneous and guided creativity
Ok, that all sounds very dry. Is there really no room for creativity here?
Quite the opposite. First of all, rational thinking is not the opposite of creativity. The unquestioning application of models and methods teached by others to arbitrary situations and problems - that is the opposite of creativity.
Rational analysis, on the other hand, can very well be innovative and thus also an expression of creativity.
So what is creativity?
I distinguish between spontaneous and guided creativity.
Spontaneous creativity is playful and does not require conscious observation and reflection, it just happens. Guided creativity presupposes a conscious problem, but it is nevertheless innvovative in that it links problems, concepts, approaches to solutions in a new way.
Therefore, yes, contrary to popular belief, you can be creative and rational in the same time.
That's why thinking is so much fun!
Spontaneous creativity
Conscious or unconscious trigger
A random result
Unusual practice / unguided experiment
Benefits of the praxis
vs.
Intentions behind the praxis
Guided creativity
Conscious trigger (a starting point of interest)
... (0-x steps of observation and analysis)
... (0-x steps of reflexion and adjustment)
An unusual approach
A subjective fulfilling result
Thanx!