16

Me as a citizen

Critical thinking in everyday life and civic life

1 Introduction

In this course, you have learned:

  • distinguish between fact, opinion and assumption,
  • look for justification,
  • recognise manipulation,
  • compare different points of view,
  • discuss with respect,
  • and also how the European Union works.

Now it's time to ask yourself: What does this mean for me?

2 What does it mean to be a citizen?

Being a citizen means:

  • living in society,
  • being part of decision-making,
  • having rights,
  • having responsibilities,
  • having responsibility.

Every citizen:

  • can have their own opinion,
  • can take an interest in public affairs,
  • can make decisions.

3 Decision-making in everyday life

Every day you make decisions:

  • which information to believe,
  • what to share,
  • how to respond to the opinions of others.

This is also civic behaviour.

4 Before making an important decision

Before making an important decision, you can ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do I have enough information?
  • Am I aware of other perspectives and opinions?
  • Am I acting solely on emotion?
  • Have I verified the source?

5 Reflection

Think about it and answer these questions for yourself:

  • Has this course changed the way you read the news?
  • Which module was the most difficult?
  • What was most beneficial?
  • What will you do differently than before?

There is no right or wrong answer.

6 My role as a citizen

You don't have to know the answer to everything. And it's okay to say:

  • to say "I don't know, I need to check",
  • to change your mind,
  • look for information,
  • to ask questions.

Critical thinking is not about perfection. It's about trying to verify and understand.

7 European context

The European Union and individual states function thanks to people.

Decisions are made through:

  • discussion,
  • voting,
  • citizen involvement.

Responsible citizenship means:

  • taking an interest,
  • thinking,
  • not allowing oneself to be easily manipulated.
Naposledy změněno: pátek, 31. července 2026, 10.21