How to think critically in the age of AI

Tech philosopher and author Tom Chatfield joins Education Futures for a deep exploration of what it really means to learn, think, and stay human in an age of powerful AI systems.

We talk about the central paradox of our era: the skills required to use AI wisely are the very ones AI risks eroding. Tom explains why LLMs should prompt us rather than replace our thinking, and how critical thinking, dialogue, embodiment, and emotional self-mastery remain irreplaceably human. We dive into practical ways to teach critical thinking, what Plato and Descartes would say about our technological moment, why pausing is essential, and how to design a school for 2040 that truly uplifts learners. A hopeful, nuanced conversation about intelligence—human and artificial—and how to build a future where technology serves our flourishing.

Tom's substack: https://tomchatfield.substack.com/

Tom's latest report "AI and the future of pedagogy" for Sage: https://www.sagepub.com/explore-our-content/white-papers/2025/11/03/ai-and-the-future-of-pedagogy

Tom's latest book "Wise Animals" https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/tom-chatfield/wise-animals/9781529079746

Tom's children book "Your brilliant brain": https://amzn.eu/d/cuFzpmo

Tom's book to teach critical thinking: "Critical Thinking: Your Guide to Effective Argument, Successful Analysis and Independent Study" https://a.co/d/5iZ1NI5

Tom's TED talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/tom_chatfield_7_ways_games_reward_the_brain

Game designer Adrian Hon's work: https://mssv.net/about/