The 360 degrees Lens
I was working on a training for some friends on how to critically analyse a current affairs topic, and stumbled upon a thought process which am calling “The 360° Lens Framework”.
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What is this framework?
The 360° Lens Framework is a comprehensive approach to critically assess any current affairs topic or incident by exploring it from all possible angles. It is structured into five key dimensions: Context and History, Stakeholders and Motivations, Ethical and Logical Analysis, Broader Implications, and Future Outlook.
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What are these dimensions?
Each dimension includes targeted questions to uncover deeper insights.
- Context and History: Understanding the Background
• What are the root causes or historical context leading to this situation?
• When did it happen, and what triggered it?
• What cultural, social, economic, or political factors are influencing it?
• Are there similar precedents in the past in the same place?
• Are there similar precedents in a different place?
• How does this fit into broader trends or patterns?
2. Stakeholders and Motivations: Identifying Key Players
• Who are the people involved in it now and in the past?
• Who is talking about it now and in the past?
• Who stands to gain or lose from this incident?
• What are the motivations of the stakeholders involved?
• Are there hidden players or influences that are not immediately visible?
• How are different groups (e.g., media, public, governments) reacting to it?
3. Ethical and Logical Analysis: Questioning Narratives
• Why did it happen, and what evidence supports the claims being made?
• What ethical dilemmas or moral questions does this raise?
• What values are being prioritized, and are they justified?
• What are the biases or prejudices influencing interpretations or actions?
• Are there contradictions or inconsistencies in the narratives?
• What personal biases or assumptions might I have about this topic?
4. Broader Implications: Analyzing the Impact
• What are all the related topics or connected issues?
• What are the short-term and long-term consequences of this event?
• How does it impact different sectors (e.g., environment, economy, security)?
• What ripple effects might occur beyond the immediate situation?
• What parallels can be drawn to unrelated but similar issues?
• How does this relate to global events or trends?
5. Future Outlook: Exploring Solutions and Scenarios
• What alternative courses of action could have been taken?
• What solutions are being proposed, and are they feasible?
• What innovative approaches could address the issue?
• What would have happened if this incident didn’t occur?
• What are the potential future scenarios based on current developments?
• What can be done to prevent similar incidents in the future?
• What indicators should be monitored to assess the situation’s evolution?
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How to Use the 360° Lens Framework
1. Select the Topic: Clearly define the current affairs topic or incident you want to analyze.
2. Apply the Questions: Go through each dimension systematically, answering the questions.
3. Synthesize Insights: Combine the answers into a cohesive understanding of the situation.
4. Communicate Your Assessment: Present your findings in a structured and balanced manner, considering all perspectives.
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Why Use the 360° Lens Framework?
• Comprehensive: Covers every possible aspect of a topic, ensuring no blind spots.
• Balanced: Encourages unbiased analysis by questioning personal and external narratives.
• Actionable: Provides a pathway to understanding implications and exploring solutions.
• Adaptable: Can be applied to any topic, whether local, national, or global.
By using this framework, you can approach any current affairs topic with depth, clarity, and an open mind, leading to well-rounded and insightful conclusions. I found it useful, and hopefully it will be useful to others also.
