The following quiz yields a quick assessment of your current level of independent thinking. The items provide an overview of what is involved in thinking for yourself.

Instructions: Think of how you make decisions and form opinions, then for each item, using a scale from 1 to 5, rate how often the statement is true of you. With '1' being 'rarely like you' and '5' being 'usually like you'. There are no right or wrong answers. Simply answer the way that best describes how you usually feel and act.
 

Openness

__1.  I listen.
__2.  I consider several points of view.
__3.  I accept partial answers.
__4.  I seek alternative explanations.

Critical Thinking

__5.  I define the core issues.
__6.  I am alert for bias.
__7.  I resist emotional appeals.
__8.  I examine the evidence.

Independence

__9. I clarify my viewpoint.
__10. I rely on my own judgment.
__11. I trust my instincts.
__12. I weigh expert’s advice before accepting it.

Values

__13. I live by a personal moral code.
__14. I consider what really matters to me.
__15. I tell the truth.
__16. I do what I say I will do.

Responsibility

__17. I am constantly improving myself.
__18. I don’t make excuses when I act badly.
__19. I examine my motivation.
__20. I weigh consequences.

Assertiveness

__21. I say what I think.
__22.  I question what I see and hear.
__23. I take divergent positions.
__24. I speak up when someone is inappropriate.

Religious Openness

__25. I respect others’ religious beliefs.
__26. I interpret religious edicts for myself.
__27. I explore religious views different from mine.
__28. I question the views of my religion.

Questioning Authority

__29. I follow my conscience.
__30. I speak up when people in authority do wrong.
__31.  I do what makes sense, not just obey laws.
__32. I am skeptical of what people in authority say.

Scoring:

        32—64: Others Think for You

You give into other’s pressures because you don’t know what you want. When you sort out what matters most to you, you will be stronger. Take time to explore what really matters to you and how you see things.

65—96: Potential Independent Thinker

You have considerable potential to think independently.  Exercise your mental muscles by deciding your opinion on issues. Begin by gathering diverse information then weight the  pros and cons.

97—128: Promising Independent Thinker

Your critical thinking skills are good. You avoid stereotypes and  question experts and authorities. It’s important to remind yourself to use your analytical skills. Look for opportunities to practice—everyday.

129—160: Outstanding Independent Thinker

Your ability to think for yourself is outstanding.  You are good at seeing bamboozles and avoidng them.  Be careful not to become complacent by being alert to your unquestioned assumptions.

Copyright 2001: Beverly Potter. This Survey may be copied for individual use.  Any other use requires written permission from Beverly Potter. Beverly@docpotter.com Box 3008, Oakland, CA. 94609 fax 510/420-3672. All Rights Reserved.

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