Somehow, it’s easier to convey the concept of intellectual humility by illustrating its opposite, as opposed to trying to define the term, itself.
Think about today’s leaders, pundits, celebrities, and other influencers. Or the majority of the population at large, for that matter.
Notice how most seem completely invested in their own points of view. Not just invested, cemented.
They are startlingly sure that their perspective, on any issue, any question, any topic, is the most informed one. The right one.
Many would go so far as to say if you don’t agree with them, you’re either misinformed, poorly educated, or just plain stupid.
This is the exact opposite of intellectual humility.
See what I mean?
“Intellectual modesty is humility as to what I know. Intellectual humility is modesty as to what I don’t know.” – Tariq Ramadan
Intellectual Humility
When I first heard the term intellectual humility, I was glad to finally have a name to put to the characteristic that I was craving in our leadership, our society, our world.
I’m really worn out from hearing people lecture from one pulpit or another with a completely black and white view, on topics where they themselves often succumb to grey (in private).
Not the few moral absolutes that most of us can agree on. The other, more multi-dimensional, nuanced, ideas. Topics where we do their complexity a disservice by supporting them unquestionably or decrying them with vitriol.
There are so few issues that don’t warrant discussion with others who have differing viewpoints.
Yet this is, in fact, the prevailing practice. No room for dialogue, no questions, no discourse.
No such thing as intellectual humility.
Everyone seems so polarized, so unyielding. They visit their own echo chambers to hear speeches and soundbites that reinforce their own beliefs. Instead of actively seeking others who can help them understand why large chunks of humanity think differently than they do.
What has become of us?
What would Socrates think?
It gets harder and harder to find the alternative behavior, the one that helped generate eras of discovery and debate: intellectual humility.
Intellectual humility, more completely defined, is the willingness to recognize and acknowledge our own limitations and fallibilities, and to approach knowledge and understanding with an open mind.
Here’s why many people crave it in their leaders, and why it can be such a powerful competency.
The Power of Intellectual Humility
It’s ridiculous to have to say it, but no one of us is right about everything – or almost anything, for that matter.
When we cease to interact with those who think differently, when we stop having respectful and engaging conversations about difficult things, we eliminate a powerful opportunity, perhaps the only opportunity, to develop more thoughtful, comprehensive and far-reaching solutions, compromises and paths forward.
In short, we stall the progress of the human race.
We need more people who engage at this level if we’re ever going to get anywhere with the challenges the world faces today.
Intellectual humility is the key.
It allows us to break free from the confines of our own biases and preconceived notions.
It also enables us to explore new ideas and perspectives and fosters open-mindedness and compassion.
And it encourages dialogue and collaboration.
By embracing intellectual humility, we can enhance our growth, deepen our understanding, and build stronger relationships based on mutual respect and empathy.
Cultivating Intellectual Humility
Intellectual humility begins with acknowledging that:
- No one of us is infallible.
- Everyone’s knowledge is limited.
- We cannot know the context of another’s thinking or life experience.
- The world is far more complicated than what we can see in our own backyard.
We must realize none of us possess all the answers and be open to the possibility of being wrong.
And embrace the opportunity to learn from others.
Actively seeking out diverse viewpoints expands our understanding of the world.
It also challenges our own biases.
When we engage in thoughtful discussions with those who hold different beliefs and opinions, it helps us grow.
We should approach these conversations with curiosity and respect.
And we should not feel cemented in our views enough to judge those who disagree.
Who are we to say that we are the ones who are right? That we have the only acceptable world view?
The Benefits of Intellectual Humility
Becoming more receptive to new ideas and information facilitates continuous learning and intellectual growth.
It allows us to expand our knowledge and develop a more nuanced understanding of the world.
Adopting a humbler mindset enables us to make more informed decisions by considering a wider range of perspectives.
By acknowledging our cognitive biases, we can make better choices and avoid the pitfalls of narrow-minded thinking.
Intellectual humility fosters an atmosphere of respect and understanding.
By valuing diverse opinions and engaging in thoughtful conversations, we can build stronger relationships based on empathy, trust, and mutual learning.
And we model the behavior and attitude we should want our children to mimic and copy – that everyone’s perspective is worthy, and worth considering.
Why It Pays to be Intellectually Humble
In a world dominated by strong opinions and quick judgments, it is refreshing and inspiring to encounter intellectual humility.
By making a conscious effort to be humbler, we can foster personal growth, deepen our understanding of the world, and cultivate more meaningful connections with those around us.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years as a consultant. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate coaching and leadership, including mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from relevant experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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