Critical Thinking and Media Literacy

In today's world, we are surrounded by countless media outlets, from television programs to social media to online news. But have we ever stopped to ask ourselves important questions like:

Is this news truly neutral or does it only present one point of view?

Is this advertisement only selling a product, or also a lifestyle or an idea?

Is this video real or staged?

These types of questions help us develop critical thinking and media literacy.

Having critical thinking skills and learning to analyze information allows us to make better decisions in our daily lives. Instead of believing everything we see, we can ask ourselves: "What is the purpose of this message?" or "Who created this content and why?"

These questions can help us avoid scams, false content, misinterpreted messages, believing fake news, or persuasive techniques. Understanding the intention behind the message is key to being more informed and less manipulated.

For example, many advertisements not only sell a product but can also sell ideas, emotions, or lifestyles to influence audience perception. This is where we must apply both critical thinking and media literacy.

These skills are essential in today's digital world. They help me become a better student, a more responsible communicator, and a conscious content creator.

An example of media I enjoy is Mr. Trance, a Colombian animated series. It uses humor and surreal situations to address topics such as politics, consumer habits, and social behavior. Although it initially seems fun and simplistic, the series often includes deeper messages about society and everyday life.

If we apply critical thinking, we can better understand the meaning of its stories. And through media literacy, we realize how media communicates more than just entertainment.

Developing these skills not only helps me as a student but also prepares me to be a responsible digital citizen.