Information has always been a source of power.

Being informed of the moves of your opponents gives the power of strategy. To understand how to channel the power of electricity to light a room gives the power of comfort. In the current age of technology, information has never been more valuable.

However, information can deceive. And can be a particularly dangerous weapon against people who aren’t thinking for themselves. Therefore, forming your own opinion is crucial.

Intellectual independence isn’t easy but it’s a much better alternative to cultural osmosis.

So what does it mean to be intellectually independent? First, it does not mean that you have an opinion on every topic. This would be both unattainable and excessive. Rather intellectual independence is broken down into 4 parts.

1. Decide what topics are relevant to your life.
2. Be as informed as you can about those topics.
3. Check ideas you blindly follow.
4. Put no earthly authority higher than your ability to think for yourself.

Don’t wait to begin your journey to intellectual independence. Begin right now.