Final answer:
The given statement is True. Being mindful is crucial for active listening and is the first fundamental step in the process. It sets the stage for a greater awareness, necessary for critical thinking and engaged learning, especially in the context of philosophy and other disciplines requiring deep reflection and open-mindedness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deciding to be mindful is indeed a foundational step in the process of active listening. Mindfulness allows a person to be present in the moment, which is essential for effectively absorbing and comprehending information being communicated. To illustrate, one can practice mindfulness through simple exercises such as sitting upright in a comfortable chair, being in a quiet environment, closing the eyes, repeating a mantra, and focusing on pleasant thoughts. These practices facilitate a state of awareness conducive to listening, where one can pay attention not only to the words being said but also to the underlying emotions and one's own emotional responses.
Moreover, adopting a mindset of epistemic humility is crucial for critical thinking and philosophy students. Acknowledging the limits of our knowledge and the possibility of being mistaken helps cultivate a mindset that is open to new information and perspectives. Engaging actively, asking clarifying questions, and evaluating the trustworthiness of information sources all contribute to a more reflective and critical approach to learning and engaging with philosophical content.
Therefore, the statement that being mindful is the first step in listening and forms the foundation for subsequent steps is true.