Our schools have, in many ways, become a battleground over what should be taught. Evolution vs. creation. Atheism vs. religion. And yet many people on every side of this debate are making a fundamental mistake -- trying to teach our children 'what to think', rather than teaching them 'how to think'.

Using his experience of living in China for 15 years, John Lombard will use examples from the Chinese educational system -- its strengths, and its weaknesses -- to bring a new perspective to the debate; and to suggest ways in which we can learn from that situation. Why is it that in China, a country that is officially atheist, superstition and cults are growing at an astounding rate? How does the debate over Traditional Chinese Medicine in China relate to the debate over abortion in North America?

Mr. Lombard will present arguments and examples of a strategy that most people, regardless of their beliefs, should find more rational and reasonable: a strategy that uses critical thinking as its foundation, and that seeks primarily to teach our children how to think -- and reach decisions -- for themselves.

The audience will be encouraged to ask questions and make comments after the talk, and attendees are invited to stay and discuss the issues. The event will conclude by 9pm.

John Lombard was born and raised in Canada, but for the past 15 years he has been living and working in China. He established two businesses as well as a non-profit organization to work with one of the Chinese minority groups, the Mosuo. In addition, he worked with local Chinese skeptics and scientists to establish one of the first official critical thinking organizations in China. John is currently the Director of Business Relations at the Canada Asia Business Network.

This event is free to all CFI members. An entry fee of $5 will apply for non-members.