Friday, September 26, 2025.
How Critical Thinking Actually Works (and What It’s Not)
We’ve all been there, scrolling through Facebook or sitting at the dinner table when someone drops, “Well, that’s just my critically thought-out opinion.” But if we’re honest, what usually follows isn’t Critical Thinking at all, it’s just an opinion with a shiny name tag.
That’s why it helps to take a step back and ask: what is Critical Thinking really, and what is it not?
What It Is Not
Let’s clear up the myths right away:
- It’s not cynicism—being critical doesn’t mean distrusting everything.
- It’s not arguing for sport—the goal isn’t to “win,” it’s to find the best conclusion.
- It’s not just memorizing facts—knowledge is raw material; thinking is what tests and applies it.
- It’s not analysis-paralysis—the point isn’t to second-guess every decision.
- It’s not pure logic alone—values and context matter too.
- And here’s a big one: it’s not a license to insult people. Critical Thinking should never be used as a clever way to belittle others. If you’re using it to tear people down rather than raise the level of discussion, you’ve missed the point.
So What Is It?
Critical Thinking is a process. It’s pausing before reacting, asking better questions, and weighing evidence before drawing a conclusion. It looks like this:
- Observe without rushing to judgment.
- Ask open-ended questions: What’s missing? Who benefits?
- Break down the moving parts.
- Evaluate the evidence and sources.
- Pull insights together into a reasoned conclusion.
- Reflect: check your own blind spots and biases. (And yes, I assure you, you’re biased.)
Why It Matters
The fun part is this: Critical Thinking isn’t just for philosophy class or courtrooms. It’s for Facebook threads, office debates, and family dinners. It doesn’t mean we’ll all agree, but it does mean the conversation gets sharper, fairer, and more respectful.
At the end of the day, Critical Thinking isn’t about shutting down opinions, it’s about raising the standard for them. If we’re going to throw around the phrase “critically thought out,” let’s actually mean it. The world doesn’t need more loud opinions, it needs clearer thinking.
Brett Mikkelson
Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panamá
TOP NEWS and TIDBITS:
Multinationals Interested in Panama, Government Presented Over $30 Billion in Investments, More Canal Projects
The President of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, led the Council of the Americas (COA) forum in New York, an event that sold out its 54 available seats and even had a waiting list due to strong business interest.
Among the companies present were Apple, Google, Amazon Web Services, Pfizer, ExxonMobil, Citibank, Chiquita Brands, Visa, and Warner Bros, among others.
Mulino stated that “the time to invest in Panama is now” and emphasized that the country’s stability rests on two pillars: a dollarized economy and a pro-investment legal framework. According to the president, this combination explains the interest of multinationals in exploring opportunities for setting up and expanding in Panama.
In his remarks, the president presented a portfolio of strategic projects totaling over US$30 billion in public investment, aimed at health, education, transportation, infrastructure, and innovation. Among these, he mentioned Metro Line 3 and the tunnel under the Panama Canal, currently under construction, as well as projects in the study phase such as the Panama–David railway and the electrical interconnection with Colombia.
This is complemented by the Panama Canal’s US$8.4 billion portfolio, which includes works such as the Río Indio multipurpose reservoir, designed to secure drinking water for more than two million people and ensure the operation of the Canal for the next 50 years.
Mulino also highlighted that in 2024, twelve new companies were established under the multinational headquarters regime, bringing the total to 186, confirming the private sector’s confidence in the country.
The presidency also noted that COA President Susan Segal and Board Chairman Andrés Gluski recognized the Panamanian government’s efforts to consolidate Panama as a safe and reliable destination for foreign investment.
Youth Awards: Economic Impact of $30 Million Projected in Panama
The celebration of the Youth Awards in Panama has generated a significant economic boost for the country, estimated at $30 million, according to Minister of Culture Maruja Herrera during a press conference on Tuesday.
The event, which has brought international artists, hosts, production teams, and thousands of fans to the country, has had a positive impact on hotel occupancy, the gastronomy sector, and tourism in general, according to organizers and local business owners.
“In addition to all the economic impact this brings, the creative industry is strengthened, cultural, diplomatic, and artistic exchange is fostered, and, above all, Panama’s cultural richness is showcased to the world,” highlighted Minister Herrera.
The official also explained that the National Government allocated $5 million for the organization of the event, as part of a strategy to promote the country as a host for major international productions.
The Youth Awards, organized by Univision, have become one of the most important music events in the Latin sphere, and their celebration in Panama represents a platform for global visibility for both national and international artists, as well as for emerging local talent.
Business owners in the hotel and gastronomy sectors confirmed that increases in bookings, consumption, and tourist visits have been noticeable in recent days, especially in areas near the event venues.
Panama Canal: U.S. Monitors Ports and the Influence of the CCP
The Panama Canal, which handles nearly 40% of U.S. container traffic and represents about $240 billion in annual trade, is once again in the geopolitical spotlight following the announced sale by Hutchison Ports, a Hong Kong-based company that operates both Panamanian ports.
Hutchison, controlled by Li Ka-Shing, has been implicated in cases of fentanyl precursor smuggling and is linked to networks that advance the interests of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the West. The sale of 90% of its ports in Panama has raised international concern, although China is currently maintaining oversight without direct intervention, as long as the new company is not American.
U.S. Oversight of Ports Near the Panama Canal
The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform has requested a briefing for October 1, 2025, with the objective of evaluating:
- How the Department of Transportation counters CCP influence in the Canal and related projects.
- What measures are in place to ensure U.S. companies can invest in Panamanian infrastructure without corruption.
- Which authorities could assume control of the Canal if the neutrality treaty were breached, and how quickly that could be implemented.
Panama has expressed interest in limiting Chinese influence, as evidenced by the termination of the Belt and Road Initiative, but the situation requires constant monitoring due to changes in port operations and potential international tensions.
For inquiries or to schedule the briefing, the U.S. Committee provides the contact: (202) 225-5074.
Multinational Companies Launch Academy to Prepare Panamanian Talent and Strengthen Their Workforce Integration
Multinational companies established in Panama, through the Chamber of Multinational Companies (Casem), have launched the Academia SEM, a pilot program designed to close the gap between local talent supply and the demand from the global corporate sector, giving more Panamanians the opportunity to work in these companies.
Casem President Tony Roldán explained that the initiative responds to a need identified in collaboration with SEM-regime companies. “We want to create a bridge between academia and businesses so that Panamanian talent can integrate efficiently into the labor market, with better positions and higher salaries,” he said.
The program will last six months and will start with a group of 30 university students. These young participants will receive training in key areas, mentoring sessions with multinational executives, participation in labs and projects designed by the companies themselves, and upon completion, they will have access to paid internships.
The academy’s launch and the start of classes are scheduled for October 6.
Initial Focus: Soft and Digital Skills
The first cycle of the academy will focus on developing soft and digital skills, based on a survey conducted among participating companies. “The first barrier to workforce integration identified was the English language, and the second was soft and digital skills. While language is harder to influence, we can contribute to improving skills,” Roldán explained.
This focus is not final. Casem stated that the academy will be continuously evaluated and adjusted according to sector needs. “We will have metrics to evaluate results and update the program based on what companies require at each stage,” he added.
Selection and Requirements
Students are selected by their universities, such as UTP and UMIP, and then validated by company recruiters. They must be in their fourth or fifth year, have an adequate level of English, and be available to meet the additional academic workload.
The program is free for participants but requires extra effort. “It’s a sacrifice, because the classes are hybrid, mostly online, with some in-person sessions on Saturdays, adding to the workload of their current studies,” Roldán emphasized.
Partnership with Multinationals
Companies participating from the start include Dell Technologies, Diageo, Incommix, Merck, Novo Nordisk, Palic, and Filux. Additionally, companies like Nestlé and Movistar have expressed interest in joining future editions.
Internships will only be available to those who successfully complete the program and will be paid according to each company’s policies. “Internships will only be offered to those who complete the program successfully, and while each company has its own payment policy, all are compensated,” Roldán stressed.
Impact on Competitiveness
According to Roldán, multinationals operating in Panama have growth plans and intend to make new hires in the coming years. “About 80% of the companies we surveyed expect to expand by 5% to 15% over the next three years,” he stated.
He also mentioned that new companies are entering the market.
For Roldán, the academy benefits both the youth and the country’s strategy. “Education and talent are key factors in companies’ decisions to establish themselves. A lack of talent compromises competitiveness. We are making a contribution, but it is everyone’s responsibility,” he warned.
Currently, over 185 multinationals operate under the SEM regime in Panama, with cumulative investments of around US$1.3 billion. Initiatives like this can strengthen the country’s capacity to attract new investments and consolidate existing ones.
A Model That Will Evolve
The goal is to double the number of students in the next edition and incorporate additional universities. The official launch is in October, and selected students will begin classes the same day, which will run until April 2026.
“We want this academy to become an incubator of Panamanian talent for multinational companies. If we succeed in sending students out motivated and with real opportunities, we will have taken a very important step,” Roldán concluded.
He also does not rule out expanding the program to include more companies and universities in the future.
The project is the result of a joint effort with the private sector and also has the support of the Ministry of Commerce and Industries, which accompanies the initiative to strengthen human capital development in Panama.
ION Performs 30 Surgeries Using Da Vinci Xi Robotic System in Panama
The National Oncology Institute (ION) of Panama has performed 30 robotic surgeries using the Da Vinci Xi system since July 24, when the first operation was conducted on an uninsured patient.
This program, a pioneer in the region and within Central America’s public health system, aims to reach 1,200 surgeries over the next five years, benefiting both insured and uninsured patients.
Acting Minister of Health, Manuel Zambrano, stated that implementing this system marks a turning point in Panamanian medicine, offering safer surgeries with less blood loss, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.
ION Debuts Da Vinci Xi System, Reaches 30 Surgeries
Julio Javier Santamaría, Director of ION, highlighted the effort of the multidisciplinary team that made the project possible, which operates under a loan-for-use model: the company provides the equipment, and ION acquires the necessary supplies.
Armando de Gracia Nieto, Head of the Surgical Oncology Services Department, explained that this technology is used for prostate, kidney, colon, and cervical cancer surgeries, all with more efficient and less invasive outcomes.
Currently, ION has 8 certified surgeons in urology, gynecologic oncology, and digestive surgery trained to operate the Da Vinci Xi system, considered the most advanced platform in minimally invasive surgery.
First Patient Recovers Without Pain
The first patient benefited from a radical prostatectomy, which was completed in two hours and allowed for faster recovery with less postoperative pain.
The Ministry of Health reiterated its commitment to continuing to strengthen quality care and technological innovation for the benefit of cancer patients in Panama.
Regulator and Private Sector Call for Veto of Law Granting 25% Discount to Safe Drivers
The private sector and Panama’s insurance regulator are requesting a presidential veto of Law 53, which establishes a 25% discount for safe drivers. The law was approved by the National Assembly in its third reading.
On Friday, the Panamanian Association of Insurers (APADEA) held a press conference announcing that it will ask the president to veto the bill, arguing that it undermines free enterprise and goes against consumers’ interests. They also warned that the law could increase current insurance premiums and reduce market offerings.
Ian Van Hoorde, President of APADEA, stated that the veto request is mainly due to the law attempting to control free enterprise, which is the primary reason. Second, if sanctioned, it would adversely affect consumers.
Regarding the figures, Van Hoorde indicated that the report prepared by the University of Panama and used by the National Assembly to support the law contains misinterpreted and inaccurate data.
“We did not have access to the report prepared by the University of Panama until recently, after the debate had taken place. Upon review, we recognized that they made a good effort using figures published on the Insurance Superintendent’s website. However, we believe the information was misinterpreted, and it must be understood correctly to be properly used,” said Van Hoorde.
Insurance Superintendent’s Position
Luis Enrique Bandera, Superintendent of Insurance and Reinsurance of Panama, stated that he agrees with the private sector’s concerns:
“We fully agree with APADEA regarding the methodological and calculation errors in the project, as well as the falsification and manipulation of information related to the laws of other countries.”
He added that a project based on a law repealed 13 years ago — citing Law 59 of 1996 — makes little sense to discuss. He also called the project populist and confirmed that a presidential veto will be requested.
Financial Context
So far this year, $110 million in insurance claims have been paid.
“We consider this law neither well-founded nor properly studied, and therefore it should not be approved or sanctioned by the president. We join APADEA in requesting that it be vetoed,” said Gabriel Diez, President of CoNEP.
Diez emphasized that the law threatens free enterprise, is based on a previously repealed law without actuarial study, and does not solve any problem — in fact, it worsens the situation for insured individuals.
APADEA Statement
APADEA Presents Historical Results and Questions University of Panama Report on Law 53
Panama City, September 19, 2025 – The Panamanian Association of Insurers (APADEA) held a press conference to present its position regarding the report prepared by the University of Panama, which the National Assembly used to support Law 53, granting a 25% discount to safe drivers.
Historical Results in the Auto Insurance Sector
APADEA presented technical historical data for Panama’s auto insurance sector over the past 10 years, highlighting that:
- The average profit margin over this period was 3.74%, showing the tight operating margins in this sector. For 2024, the profit was 5.62%, considering all coverages, far from the 25% indicated in the report used by the Assembly.
- The average claims ratio for the 10 years is 54.2%, covering all lines including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability coverage alone has a claims experience of 60%, while other coverages are closer to 50%.
- Average administrative expenses during these 10 years were 15%. APADEA clarified that total administrative expenses are not the same as component expenses and that proper pricing should use nominal costs, which the University report did not provide.
APADEA Questions the UP Report Assumptions
APADEA emphasized that the report relied on a sample of 236,790 vehicles with mandatory coverage and an average premium of USD 179.63, using assumptions that distort the insurance market reality:
- Administrative expenses: The report assumed $6.38 million for 236,790 vehicles ($26.94 per vehicle), but under the 25% discount scenario, the figure magically dropped to $4.785 million ($20.20 per vehicle), creating a $1.595 million shortfall.
- Claims ratio: The report assumed $16.15 million in claims (38% ratio) for liability coverage, while the actual ratio is closer to 60%, representing $25.5 million in claims — an $8.5 million discrepancy.
Revised Calculations by APADEA
Using the same 236,790 vehicles and $179.63 premium as the University, APADEA recalculated profitability and the impact of a 25% renewal discount:
- Correcting claims and administrative expenses results in a net loss of -8% for the studied vehicles.
- Losses are absorbed through cross-subsidies from other coverages.
- To maintain the -8% loss while granting a 25% discount, the base premium would need to rise to $221.24.
- A base premium of $288.05 would cover all expenses, claims, and the 25% discount while yielding a 5% net profit.
- Increasing from $179.63 to $221.24 or $288.05 to achieve net premiums of $166 or $216 (after discount) is impractical.
APADEA stressed that these are corrections of the University’s assumptions, not APADEA proposals.
Conclusions
APADEA warns that:
- Law 53 undermines free enterprise.
- Current supply and demand benefits all consumers.
- Approval of the law would harm insurance consumers.
- The University of Panama’s Economics Faculty should review the report with cost accounting, actuarial, and insurance experts.
APADEA will request that the Executive branch veto the law for violating free enterprise and consumer interests and will submit a report with revised calculations to the University and the Insurance Superintendent.
