AI Bullshit Detection: Why Your Critical Thinking is Your Best AI Tool

From AI hallucinations to government data sharing: developing your critical thinking superpower in the tech-power-government era.

Author

Amanda Nelson
August 21, 2025

Welcome to Critical Thinking Week! 🧠

Hey there, creative friends!

We're smack in the middle of our AI myth-busting month, and I've got something on my mind that I need to get off my chest.

I've been watching this absolute mess unfold where tech companies are throwing AI features at us like confetti at a parade, governments are running around like chickens with their heads cut off trying to regulate everything, and meanwhile, we're all stuck in the middle wondering what's real and what's just marketing hype.

But here's what hit me like a ton of bricks: your critical thinking skills are worth more than any AI tool out there. Seriously. They're the foundation that makes AI tools actually useful instead of dangerous.

Think of it like this: if you're going to use a chainsaw, you better understand how it works, what safety measures to take, and when NOT to use it. Same deal with AI. We need to build your critical thinking skills before we can safely explore AI's creative potential.

This week, we're building your AI bullshit detector. Because here's the ugly truth: AI will confidently tell you the moon is made of cheese with the same certainty as it tells you water is wet.

Let's build the skills you need to tell the difference.

Main Feature: How to Evaluate AI Outputs and Spot Misinformation

The AI Confidence Problem

Okay, here's something that trips up even the most experienced AI users (including yours truly): AI models are designed to sound confident, not to be accurate.

Let me say that again because it's important: they're trained to generate text that sounds human and authoritative, regardless of whether the information is correct.

Why This Happens:

  • AI models are trained on human text, and let's face it, humans often write with way more confidence than we should

  • The models learn that confident-sounding responses get better user ratings (because we're all suckers for someone who sounds like they know what they're talking about)

  • They don't actually "know" anything—they're just predicting what words should come next

  • They can't distinguish between facts and fiction in their training data (which is a whole other can of worms)

The Result: AI will tell you that the moon is made of cheese with the same confidence as it tells you that water is wet. This is why critical thinking is essential—you need to be the one evaluating the information, not the AI.

The 5-Step AI Evaluation Framework

I've been tinkering with this framework based on my own AI adventures (and misadventures). It's saved my bacon more times than I can count and helped me use AI without looking like a complete fool.

Step 1: Source Check

  • Does the AI provide sources for its information? (And are they real sources, not just made-up ones?)

  • Are those sources reliable and current? (Because an AI telling you about "the latest" from 2020 isn't exactly cutting edge)

  • Can you verify the sources independently? (This is where the rubber meets the road)

Step 2: Consistency Check

  • Does the AI's response remain consistent throughout the conversation? (Or does it contradict itself like a politician in an election year?)

  • If you ask the same question differently, do you get the same answer? (This is a great way to catch AI BS)

  • Does the information align with what you already know to be true? (Trust your gut on this one)

Step 3: Context Check

  • Is the AI answering the question you actually asked? (Or is it going off on some random tangent?)

  • Is it making assumptions about your knowledge level or intentions? (Because AI loves to assume)

  • Is it staying within its area of expertise? (Don't ask a language model about quantum physics)

Step 4: Logic Check

  • Does the AI's reasoning make logical sense? (Or does it sound like it was written by someone who failed Logic 101?)

  • Are there any obvious contradictions or illogical leaps? (These are red flags waving in your face)

  • Does it acknowledge limitations and uncertainties? (If it doesn't, that's another red flag)

Step 5: Verification Check

  • Can you verify the key claims independently? (This is where you separate fact from fiction)

  • Are there multiple sources confirming the same information? (One source is a rumor, multiple sources might be truth)

  • Does the information pass your common sense test? (If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is)

Why Critical Thinking is Essential with AI

I've been playing around with AI tools for months now, and here's what I've discovered: AI confidence often masks uncertainty or inaccuracy.

It's like having a conversation with someone who's really good at sounding smart but doesn't actually know what they're talking about. The same question can get dramatically different answers depending on how I phrase it, and AI will confidently tell you things that are completely wrong with the same certainty as when it's telling you something accurate.

What This Means for You:

  • AI tools are much more inconsistent than they initially appear (they're like moody teenagers)

  • The same question can get dramatically different answers depending on phrasing (which is actually a great way to test them)

  • AI confidence often masks uncertainty or inaccuracy (don't let the smooth talk fool you)

  • Your own knowledge is your best tool for evaluating AI outputs (trust yourself more than the machine)

The Key Insight: The more I practice critical thinking with AI, the more valuable AI becomes. When I know how to evaluate outputs properly, I can use AI more effectively and avoid the pitfalls that were frustrating me before. It's like learning to drive—once you know the rules of the road, you can get where you're going safely.

When to Trust AI vs. When to Verify

Trust AI For:

  • Creative brainstorming and ideation (this is where AI actually shines)

  • Exploring possibilities and alternatives (let it throw spaghetti at the wall)

  • Getting different perspectives on a problem (sometimes a fresh angle is exactly what you need)

  • Generating variations on existing ideas (AI is great at "what if we tried this instead?")

  • Handling repetitive, pattern-based tasks (the boring stuff that makes your brain want to take a nap)

Always Verify When:

  • Getting factual information (because AI will confidently give you incorrect information)

  • Receiving specific instructions or steps (especially if you're going to follow them)

  • Learning about current events or recent developments (AI's knowledge cutoff is real, folks)

  • Getting technical specifications or requirements (this could cost you money or time if wrong)

  • Receiving recommendations that could have consequences (like health advice or financial decisions)

The Rule of Thumb: If the AI's answer could affect your decisions, your reputation, or your work, verify it. If it's just for exploration and ideation, you can be more flexible. When in doubt, verify.

The Wooden Snake's Critical Thinking Lesson for 2025: Adapting to New Information

The Wooden Snake teaches us about patience, adaptability, and quiet transformation—qualities that are essential for developing critical thinking skills in the AI age.

Quick context for new readers: The Wooden Snake is this year's Chinese zodiac theme (2025), representing wisdom, patience, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. I've been weaving these themes throughout our AI myth-busting journey.

Here's what the Wooden Snake is showing us about AI and critical thinking:

The Quiet Revolution in Information Quality

What's Happening: We're in the middle of a massive shift in how information is created, distributed, and consumed. AI tools are accelerating this shift, but they're also creating new challenges for information quality.

The Wooden Snake's Message for 2025: Stay curious, stay flexible, and don't underestimate quiet changes. The way we evaluate information is changing, and those who adapt will thrive.

How to Apply Wooden Snake Wisdom to Critical Thinking

1. Observe Before You Judge

  • Don't immediately accept or reject AI outputs (take a breath first)

  • Look for patterns and inconsistencies (they're usually there if you look)

  • Pay attention to what the AI doesn't know or won't answer (this tells you a lot)

2. Adapt Your Evaluation Methods

  • Traditional fact-checking methods still work (old school isn't always bad school)

  • New methods are emerging for AI-generated content (we're all learning together)

  • Be willing to update your approach as technology evolves (flexibility is key)

3. Find Smarter Paths Forward

  • Use AI as a starting point, not a final answer (it's a tool, not a guru)

  • Combine AI insights with human judgment (you're still the boss)

  • Build verification into your AI workflow (make it a habit, not an afterthought)

The Wooden Snake's Critical Thinking Principle: True wisdom comes from observing, adapting, and finding smarter ways to evaluate information. Don't rush to conclusions, and be willing to change your mind when new evidence emerges. This is harder than it sounds, but worth it.

Quick Tip: Developing Critical Thinking Skills for AI Interactions

Alright, here's a practical exercise you can do right now to build your AI critical thinking skills. No fancy equipment required, just you and your favorite AI tool:

The AI Reality Check Exercise

Step 1: Ask the Same Question Three Ways Pick a topic you know well (like your favorite hobby or your job) and ask an AI tool about it in three different ways:

  • Ask it directly: "What is [topic]?"

  • Ask it indirectly: "Can you explain [topic] to someone who's new to it?"

  • Ask it with context: "I'm working on [specific project] and need to understand [topic]"

Step 2: Compare the Responses

  • Are the answers consistent? (Or is the AI contradicting itself like a weather forecast?)

  • Do they match your existing knowledge? (Trust your gut on this one)

  • Are there any contradictions or inconsistencies? (These are your red flags)

  • Does the AI acknowledge limitations or uncertainties? (If not, that's suspicious)

Step 3: Identify Red Flags Look for these warning signs (they're like the AI equivalent of a "check engine" light):

  • Overly confident answers about complex topics (nobody knows everything about everything)

  • Contradictions between different responses (the AI is basically telling you it doesn't know)

  • Claims that don't align with your knowledge (your experience is valid)

  • Refusal to acknowledge limitations or uncertainties (this is a major red flag)

Step 4: Practice Verification

  • Pick one claim from the AI's responses

  • Research it independently using reliable sources (Google and Wikipedia are your friends here)

  • Compare what you find with what the AI told you

  • Note any discrepancies or inaccuracies (this is where you learn the most)

Why This Exercise Works: It helps you develop the habit of questioning AI outputs and teaches you to recognize patterns in AI behavior. The more you practice, the better you'll become at spotting potential issues. Plus, it's actually kind of fun once you get the hang of it.

Building Your Critical Thinking Toolkit

Essential Questions to Ask:

  • What sources does the AI cite? (And are they actually real?)

  • Does this align with what I already know? (Your knowledge is valuable)

  • Are there any logical inconsistencies? (Like saying the sky is both blue and green)

  • What assumptions is the AI making? (AI loves to assume things about you)

  • How current is this information? (Because "latest" from 2020 isn't exactly fresh)

  • What are the potential consequences of following this advice? (Could this screw up my day/week/life?)

Red Flags to Watch For:

  • Claims that seem too good to be true (they usually are)

  • Contradictions within the same response (the AI is confused, and that's not your problem)

  • Refusal to acknowledge limitations (this is a major red flag waving in your face)

  • Overly confident answers about complex topics (nobody knows everything about everything)

  • Claims that don't align with common sense (trust your gut)

  • Inconsistencies between different AI tools (they're all trained differently, so this is normal)

Tool Spotlight: Tools for Fact-Checking and Verification

Perplexity.ai (Free Tier)

Why I honestly love it for verification: Perplexity provides sources for its information, making it easier to verify facts and understand where information comes from. It's been a gamechanger for my verification process.

  • Best for: Research, fact-checking, understanding complex topics

  • Critical thinking value: High - you can see the sources and learn to evaluate information quality

Snopes.com (Free)

Why it's essential for critical thinking: Snopes is one of the oldest and most reliable fact-checking websites. They've been debunking misinformation long before AI was a concern.

  • Best for: Fact-checking viral claims, urban legends, and popular misconceptions

  • Critical thinking value: Very high - excellent for learning how to spot misinformation

Google Fact Check Tools (Free)

Why they're valuable: Google has built-in fact-checking tools that can help you verify information quickly. Look for fact-check labels in search results.

  • Best for: Quick verification of popular claims and current events

  • Critical thinking value: High - helps you develop verification habits

Local AI Tools (Free)

Why they're perfect for critical thinking practice: Tools like Ollama and LM Studio run on your computer, giving you complete control and privacy. I've been experimenting with these locally and they're incredible for understanding how AI actually works.

  • Best for: Understanding AI limitations, experimenting without privacy concerns

  • Critical thinking value: Very high - you learn about AI infrastructure and limitations

Important Note:

I'm only recommending free tools because critical thinking skills should be accessible to everyone. If someone is charging you to learn how to evaluate information, they're exploiting your confusion. The fundamentals should be free.

Community Corner: Building Critical Thinking Together

Alright, let's get real here. I want to hear from you about the critical thinking challenges you're facing with AI. Here are some questions that have been bouncing around in my head:

What critical thinking challenges are you facing with AI? Are you struggling to evaluate AI outputs, spot misinformation, or develop verification habits? (Because I know I'm not the only one figuring this out as I go.)

What verification methods are working for you? Have you found effective ways to check AI information or evaluate AI suggestions? (Share your wins—we could all use some good news.)

What would help you feel more confident about evaluating AI outputs? Is it understanding the technology better, learning about limitations, or something else entirely? (Be honest—what's really holding you back?)

What AI-related fears do you have that we should address? Let's tackle the real concerns, not the marketing hype. (I'm tired of the "AI will solve all your problems" BS too.)

Reply to this email with your questions, challenges, and experiences. I'll address them in upcoming newsletters and help build a community of informed, critical-thinking AI users. And honestly, I'm genuinely curious about what you're dealing with.

Personal Update: Building My Critical Thinking Foundation

This week has been about practicing what I'm preaching. I've been using the critical thinking exercises I'm sharing with you, and the results have been eye-opening.

I've discovered that:

  • AI tools are much more inconsistent than I initially realized (they're like moody teenagers, honestly)

  • The same question can get dramatically different answers depending on how I phrase it (which is actually kind of fascinating once you get over the frustration)

  • AI confidence often masks uncertainty or inaccuracy (don't let the smooth talk fool you)

  • My own knowledge is my best tool for evaluating AI outputs (trust yourself more than the machine)

But here's what's been most surprising: the more I practice critical thinking with AI, the more valuable AI becomes. When I know how to evaluate outputs properly, I can use AI more effectively and avoid the pitfalls that were frustrating me before. It's like learning to drive—once you know the rules of the road, you can get where you're going safely.

I've also been watching how the United States government continues to reveal which tech companies are not reliable with data. The Wooden Snake's prediction about quiet transformation is playing out exactly as expected.

What I'm Learning:

This reinforces why critical thinking is so essential right now. We need to be able to evaluate not just AI outputs, but also the companies providing AI tools and their data practices.

My New Approach:

  1. Always verify AI outputs using the framework I shared above (no exceptions)

  2. Research the companies behind AI tools before trusting them with my data (because trust but verify)

  3. Use local AI tools when possible to maintain privacy and control (your data, your rules)

  4. Build my critical thinking skills so I'm not dependent on any single source of information (diversify your information diet)

The goal isn't to avoid AI—it's to use it wisely and safely. Critical thinking is the key to making AI a valuable tool instead of a potential liability.

What's Coming Next Week

Next Wednesday, we'll wrap up our myth-busting month with "The Truth About AI: What You Need to Know Before Getting Creative." We'll summarize what we've learned, address any remaining myths, and prepare you for using AI creatively in the coming months.

Until then, I'd love to hear from you. What critical thinking challenges are you facing with AI? What verification methods are working for you? What would help you feel more confident about evaluating AI outputs?

Remember: your critical thinking skills are your best AI tool. Let's make sure they're sharp and ready.

With curiosity and clarity,

Amanda

The Pythoness Programmer

P.S. If you found this newsletter helpful, please share it with others who are struggling with AI misinformation. The more we can build critical thinking skills, the better for everyone. And honestly, we could all use a little less AI BS in our lives.

Resources Mentioned:

Recent Podcast Episodes:

Community Question: What critical thinking challenges are you facing with AI? Reply to this email and let me know!