You should read a variety of publications. Don’t limit yourself to one country’s newspaper. Here are a few significant international publications:[1] X Research source The India Times (India) Le Monde (France) The Asahi Shimbun (Japan) The New York Times (USA) The Guardian (UK) Washington Post (USA)
Stay critical. Do not necessarily take everything you read at face value. Notice the biases and omissions of different newspapers instead of simply taking in talking points.
These magazines have online versions as well. Peruse their archives and don’t simply focus on current news. A piece on classical music from the 1930s might lead you to a composer you’ve never heard of. The more of these articles you read, the more you will broaden your general knowledge. Writers in these magazines often write books as well. These books supply even more information about the topics that you have read about.
Engage with each art object using a different lens. A painting is different from a photograph. Don’t look at a contemporary work in the same way that you would look at a classical one. A newer oil painting deserves a different consideration than one from three hundred years ago. Remember that periods matter, as do movements. Take a tour. The guide will pass along important details about significant pieces of artwork. Listen carefully, even if you have seen the piece before. You might learn something new about the artwork or the artist. See if they have informative print-outs. These can give you vital information about the museum’s collection.
Start with classic literature. For example, Plutarch’s Lives is a compendium of stories about Greek and Roman men who lived interesting lives. Each story examines both the positive and negative qualities of these men . [5] X Research source Observe the characters in these stories, and absorb the lessons contained within these tales.
Read foundational works of philosophy. Start with Plato’s Republic. This fundamental work consists of dialogues between Socrates and his students as they attempt to figure out what the perfect society would consist of. As they design their hypothetical city, they discourse on free will, morality, and belief.
Read criticism. You might enjoy magazines like Sight and Sound and Cahiers du Cinema(in French). Both have contemporary art-house film reviews and essays. They also publish articles by film scholars about older, classic films. The AV Club (online) is also a great resource on films both old and new. Individual critics’ websites can be helpful as well.
Talk to people from a variety of professions. Education develops in various ways. An educated person realizes this. Your mechanic can be as knowledgeable as your professor.
Take accurate notes during the lecture. This will make it easier for you to come up with good, stimulating questions that will allow for an invigorating discussion. Don’t tire yourself writing down every word. Mark down just the key concepts and ideas.
If you disagree with a perspective, you could say something like “I see why you would think this. However, I have a different take on the matter. "
If you find yourself becoming angry, try to center yourself. Meditation is a good way to do this.
An inquisitive mind is an intelligent one. If you did not understand a point, say: “Would you mind explaining your last point again?”
