The importance of categorical thinking and building blocks in education

Categorical thinking, as exemplified by Aristotle, plays a significant role in education. Categorizing and organizing thoughts about various subjects like biology, politics, and logic serve as building blocks for critical concepts. Taking leaps from one category to another while educating oneself requires a belief in the substance of the category being explored. However, there is ongoing discussion regarding why Aristotle is often referred to as the first great critical thinker, as scholars emphasize the need to consider other thinkers from different cultures and avoid ethnocentrism or favoritism.