There is much public debate about critical thinking in society – until recently it, or rather the lack of it, was often mentioned in the context of Covid-19. For me, the struggle and debate around the parliamentary primaries have led to broader reflections on society’s capacity for critical thinking. Are we capable enough of questioning, analysing, interpreting, judging, and passing judgment on what we read, hear and see? Can we understand what the various slogans mean? I was also curious about what large employers and companies can do to improve the level of critical thinking in society.
Talking about what really matters is the basis for creating a positive working environment
It did not take me long to find the answer, because at the beginning of this year we launched an internal initiative at SEB Latvia – SEB Talks discussion series, in which we address not only banking-specific financial and management issues but also a broader range of topics. What is important for society and for each of us? What is worrying us at the moment? That is why our monthly discussions cover topics such as geopolitics and energy challenges. These issues concern us all and we discuss them with our family and friends. The social environment at work is not and should not be an exception where we should limit ourselves to discussing only the situation in the financial sector.
Our regular discussions on current and relevant issues also serve to promote the exchange of views within the organisation and create a sense of psychological security. It is not uncommon for us to find that employees choose roles that do not involve serious decision-making or responsibility, which can cause headaches for business leaders. Therefore, it is important that the employer creates an environment where people feel comfortable making decisions and that the company is open to discussion and debate. Having different opinions is important and taking responsibility for your own opinion is something that is highly respected and valued. As part of our SEB Talks discussions, we also invite experts from different fields, because different perspectives give us a broader view of the world and make us more empathetic.
Employers’ contribution — a platform for negotiations
It is important that critical thinking exists not only in the workplace, but also in strengthening our statehood and democracy. Every election, we give political leaders a mandate to act, and their decisions have profound implications for our well-being. Admittedly, observing the recent Saeima elections (debates and campaigns) and their results, doubts arise as to whether people are always aware of this connection. From my observations, we are not able to go deeper and get carried away by slogans without evaluating whether there is actually a plan of action behind the slogans.
If we constantly rely on the slogans of the pre-election campaigns, we cannot draw appropriate conclusions that it is we who can shape our daily lives and not some abstract power. We can achieve this by becoming civically engaged and familiarising ourselves with the arguments of the candidates.
The ability to think critically and reason logically not only strengthens the competitiveness of the company but is also a fundamental need of society as a whole, and companies can play an important role here. As employers and managers, for example, we can encourage critical thinking by creating a platform for negotiation and the exchange of ideas. There is no doubt that conversations about the things that matter will eventually go beyond our work collectives.
Ieva Tetere
Head of SEB Latvia
