Wisdom
What is it that makes someone wise, or one person wiser than another? Thomas Aquinas decreed over 700 years ago that “of all the pursuits open to men, the search for wisdom is most perfect, more sublime, more profitable, and more full of joy”(Bangen, Meeks, & Jeste, 2013). Wisdom goes beyond intelligence and knowledge, encompassing a deep understanding of human nature, informed decision-making, empathy towards others, and a holistic perspective. Wisdom is associated with experience, emotional and ethical considerations, and resilience(Walsh, 2015).
Ardelt defined wisdom as the amalgamation of insight, self-reflection on one’s limitations, and the capacity for perspective-taking (Ardelt & Sciences, 1997). According to Sternberg, wisdom is defined by the ability to harmoniously integrate or balance conflicting intrapersonal, interpersonal, and extrapersonal interests while managing a given situation in both the short and long term(Sternberg, 1998).
Stephen R. Grimm argue that wisdom consists in knowledge of how to live well and knowing how to live well constitute:
1. Knowledge of what is good or important for well-being.
2. Knowledge of one’s standing relative to what is good or important for well-being.
3. Knowledge of a strategy for obtaining what is good or important for well-being.
According to Grossman’s research, wise thinking can be observed through four key signs: intellectual humility or recognition of limits of own knowledge, (b) appreciation of perspectives broader than the issue at hand, (c) sensitivity to the possibility of change in social relations, and (d) compromise or integration of different opinions (I. J. E. P. Grossmann, 2017).
This is seen in interpersonal well-being, superior emotion regulation, openness to diverse viewpoints during heated inter group conflicts, prosocial behavior and a “good” life(I. Grossmann & Dorfman, 2019; I. Grossmann, Gerlach, Denissen, & Science, 2016; I. J. E. P. Grossmann, 2017; Kross & Grossmann, 2012).
A notable example of a wise individual is King Solomon, renowned for his sound judgment and remarkable wisdom. However, despite his wisdom, his personal life choices were often flawed. For instance, he had over 800 pagan wives and concubines, neglected his son’s education, who grew up to become an ineffective ruler. Additionally, Solomon’s love for riches and self-promotion proved unsustainable, ultimately contributing to his kingdom’s downfall.
Solomon’s life exemplifies the difference between knowledge and wisdom. While knowledge can be acquired through education and experience, wisdom requires the ability to apply that knowledge with discernment and moral character. It involves understanding oneself and others and making ethical decisions. Although Solomon had shortcomings, his legacy as a wise king endures. True wisdom involves living a life that reflects one’s values and principles.
Wisdom surpasses mere knowledge as it involves comprehension, which begins with gaining knowledge. Without knowledge, we cannot contemplate or understand. As Solomon wisely stated, “in all your getting, get understanding.” After acquiring knowledge, analysis and experience are essential to gain a deeper understanding. The application of our comprehension reflects our level of wisdom.
The world operates under principles such as cause and effect. Ignorance of these principles leads to experiencing the effects of unknown causes. On the other hand, wisdom in understanding these principles leads to positive results, as we take the right actions to achieve good effects.
I read many books, study different genres and think about the relation between the causes and effects I see. This help me in building the right principles and values that align to my personal and societal well being. These principles and values are pivotal in wise decision making as well as right application of knowledge. Aristotle explained that virtuous action proceeds from “firm and unchangeable character.” Thus, a wise person acts wisely irrespective of circumstances (Doris, 2002). Wisdom therefore helps me build a sound character, think rightly and act virtuously.
How often do you take 1-2 hours to read a book that is not related to your school or job assignments? When did you last bought a book to build your knowledge? Learning and seeking understanding is the foundation of wisdom.
References
Ardelt, M. J. T. J. o. G. S. B. P. S., & Sciences, S. (1997). Wisdom and life satisfaction in old age. 52(1), P15-P27.
Bangen, K. J., Meeks, T. W., & Jeste, D. V. J. T. A. J. o. G. P. (2013). Defining and assessing wisdom: A review of the literature. 21(12), 1254-1266.
Doris, J. M. (2002). Lack of character: Personality and moral behavior: Cambridge University Press.
Grossmann, I., & Dorfman, A. J. A. w. t. c. w. p. (2019). Wise reasoning in an uncertain world. 51-79.
Grossmann, I., Gerlach, T. M., Denissen, J. J. J. S. P., & Science, P. (2016). Wise reasoning in the face of everyday life challenges. 7(7), 611-622.
Grossmann, I. J. E. P. (2017). Wisdom and how to cultivate it.
Kross, E., & Grossmann, I. J. J. o. E. P. G. (2012). Boosting wisdom: distance from the self enhances wise reasoning, attitudes, and behavior. 141(1), 43.
Sternberg, R. J. J. R. o. g. p. (1998). A balance theory of wisdom. 2(4), 347-365.
Walsh, R. J. R. o. G. P. (2015). What is wisdom? Cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary syntheses. 19(3), 278-293.