ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the value of independence of thought, i.e., the ability to critically assess what one is told and to make up one’s own mind, for good citizenship. It argues that independent thinking is important for citizens because it is essential for democracies to reach good decisions. Those who are unable to be independent thinkers cannot contribute to democratic conversations, as they are the agents of others and not free citizens. The chapter discusses how active, student-centred pedagogies can contribute to independence of thought. It shows that students feel these discussion-based educational formats make them critical of what they are told and challenge them to develop their own perspectives.
