In one of our investigations, we surveyed (through the internet) people from all walks of life and found there are three dimensions to intellectual humility in the “folk” conception: an intellectual dimension: (smart, curious, love of learning, inquisitive); a humble dimension: (humble, doesn’t brag, not a show-off); and a civil dimension: (listens to others, kind, considerate, respectful). We think the person on the street got it about right. Intellectual humility has to do with understanding that you don’t know everything, that there is more to learn, that you don’t use your knowledge or expertise as a way to get advantage over others and that, in discussions with others, you are respectful, listening closely to what the other has to say in order to learn something. Our project has funded investigations in all of these areas. Some are looking to create a measurement of intellectual humility. Some are looking at our cognitive systems in order to see if our normal patterns of thought produce or inhibit intellectual humility. Some are interested in how children practice intellectual humility (or don’t) and how we might develop this trait. Others are looking at how knowledge is used and acquired in social situations. Still others are interested in using intellectual humility to promote better discourse between disagreeing parties. We operate under the assumption that intellectual humility is a good – the possession of which makes you a better person, and the practice of which makes for a better, more civil society. If we can learn how our natural ways of thinking either help or hinder this virtue, we can know how to best promote it. If we learn how it plays out in a child’s cognitive development, we can teach children how to practice it. If we can learn how people think and react in situations of disagreement, we can use intellectual humility to enhance civil discourse. Having a good grasp of the limits of your own knowledge coupled with a curiosity and love of learning make for a fulfilling life. Having a respect for the knowledge and opinions of others, and a attitude of open-mindedness will help society move toward the best solutions to vexing problems. These and other aspects of intellectual humility help us reach for the goal of human flourishing – for all people
Posted on: Fri, 22 Aug 2014 15:55:11 +0000
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