Meaning: The quote "Kids don't have ruts yet that adults have carved into their minds. They're born logical. Crooked thinking has to be taught" by James Hogan, an author known for his science fiction novels, highlights an interesting perspective on the nature of thinking and learning. This quote suggests that children are born with a natural inclination towards logical thinking and that it is through the influence of external factors that they may develop less logical or "crooked" thinking patterns. In essence, Hogan is emphasizing the impact of external influences on the development of cognitive processes and the potential for individuals to stray from their inherent logical nature.

One interpretation of this quote is that children possess a certain purity of thought unencumbered by the biases and preconceptions that may develop in adults over time. Their approach to reasoning and problem-solving is not yet constrained by the societal norms, personal experiences, and cultural influences that shape the thinking patterns of adults. Instead, they approach the world with a fresh perspective, unencumbered by the limitations of preconceived notions and biases. This aligns with the notion that young children are often more open-minded and imaginative, less bound by conventional thinking, and more willing to explore unconventional ideas.

Furthermore, Hogan's statement also implies that the development of "crooked thinking" is a learned behavior. It suggests that factors such as education, social conditioning, and experiences contribute to the deviation from the natural logical mindset that children are born with. This idea underscores the importance of nurturing and guiding young minds to foster and preserve their innate logical thinking abilities. It also raises questions about the role of education and societal influences in shaping individuals' cognitive processes and the potential impact of these influences on the development of critical thinking skills.

From a psychological perspective, this quote resonates with the concept of cognitive development and the impact of environmental factors on the shaping of cognitive processes. It aligns with the theory of constructivism, which posits that individuals actively construct their understanding of the world based on their experiences and interactions with the environment. In this context, the quote suggests that the introduction of "crooked thinking" occurs as a result of the interactions and experiences that individuals encounter as they grow and develop.

In the context of education, this quote emphasizes the importance of fostering a learning environment that encourages and preserves the natural logical inclinations of children. It highlights the need to be mindful of the influences and messages that are conveyed to young minds, as these can shape their thinking patterns and cognitive processes. Educators and parents play a crucial role in nurturing and preserving the logical thinking abilities of children, providing them with opportunities to explore, question, and reason in a way that aligns with their innate logical nature.

In conclusion, James Hogan's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of thinking and learning. It underscores the purity of thought that children possess before the influences of society and experience shape their cognitive processes. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and nurturing the logical thinking abilities that children are born with, highlighting the role of education and societal influences in shaping individuals' cognitive processes. This quote encourages contemplation on the impact of external influences on the development of thinking patterns and the potential for individuals to retain and cultivate their natural logical inclinations.